Integrating population, land-use, transport, water and energy-use models to improve the sustainability of urban systems

Abstract

Abstract: This paper describes the thinking used to develop an integrated urban systems model of transport and domestic dwelling energy-use in association with domestic water-use. The model aims to identify common consumption trends — synergies and tensions — to improve the efficacy of urban development policies that target sustainability issues in these infrastructure sectors. Examining the limitations of four other models used to understand similar problems, highlights the potential benefits of such a model. Using Sydney as a case study, the paper provides examples of preliminary results. 1 Introduction: key questions for urban sustainability This paper is part of an on-going research collaboration that seeks to examine the working relationships between multiple infrastructure sectors through a single analysis platform. In the past, urban infrastructure consumption patterns have usually been analysed on a single sector basis, however such a practice necessarily overlooks important synergies between different infrastructures.