Sustainability Assessment Scale for the Nile Islands (SASNI) as a Guideline to Determine Sustainable Urban Development Policies

Abstract

Egypt’s Nile islands are regarded as a source of biological diversity and natural heritage. Two million people live on 63 of these islands, spread throughout 16 governorates and covering over 155.4 km2. They are included in the wetlands but treated as a single unit, neglecting their diverse characteristics (environmental, urban, economic, and social). By utilizing a Statistical Package for Social Sciences and a Geographic Information System, this paper aims to develop a method of classifying the Nile islands by designing criteria scales to determine their value. Research is essential in assessing the sustainability of urban and economic development on the Nile islands without conflicting with their protection. The research reached recommendations for protection goals by including uninhabited islands in the national strategic plan. It also prepared an endemic plant and animal species database. It is necessary to conduct a sub-classification process with more detail to make decisions regarding the most suitable sites for various development projects without ignoring the social aspect.