Critical reflections on the theory and practice of social sustainability in the built environment – a meta-analysis. Issue 12 (2nd December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shirazi, M. Reza; Keivani, Ramin
• Is Part Of: Local environment. Volume 22:Issue 12(2017)
• Page Start: 1526
• Page End: 1545
• Publication Date: 2017-12-02
• Subjects: Social sustainability -- sustainable development -- built environment -- urban theory and practice -- urban policy; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; 363.7
• DOI: 10.1080/13549839.2017.1379476
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1354-9839

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article presents a critical reflection on the theory and practice of social sustainability in the built environment, identifies areas of agreement and disagreement, explores theoretical and conceptual gaps and challenges, and suggests practical implications for future research and urban policy. It argues that despite revisionist approaches which challenge the tripartite structure of sustainable development, social dimension of sustainability remains an essential valid pillar. Utilising a qualitative meta-analysis methodology for undertaking critical analysis of previous research and publications on the topic, key themes of theory and practice of social sustainability are identified and critically examined. Accordingly, 10 key formative characteristics of social sustainability and their research and policy implications are introduced. The article concludes with institutional observations for policy-makers to achieve greater success in addressing largely underestimated dimensions of social sustainability in urban settings.