Spatial analysis of neighborhood sustainability in Birmingham, Alabam

This research examined the geographical distribution of sustainability in the city of Birmingham, using sustainability indicators (SIs) applied at the neighborhood scale. The neighborhoods used in this project were those defined by the city's Department of Community Development. The indicators were developed by examination of previously developed sustainability rating systems and issues specific to the City of Birmingham; they addressed the three major dimensions of sustainability: economic, environmental, and social. The rating system was applied to all neighborhoods and geographical patterns were analyzed. This research is unique in its objective to evaluate sustainability of a city at the neighborhood scale. The neighborhood scale allowed the spatial patterns within the city to be analyzed. Neighborhood Sustainability Assessment (NSA) systems currently being used are applied only to new proposed developments. The ability to analyze sustainability of all areas within the city, not just new developments, provides information on which areas are performing well and which ones will require more attention in order for Birmingham to become a more sustainable city.