Applying quantitative techniques to evaluate the level of sustainability for physical dimension of urban form in Sanandaj city, Iran

Abstract

This paper aims to understand and evaluate the sustainability of physical dimension of urban form in rapidly growing urban areas and presents some quantitative methods (Shannon's Entropy and Holden Apportioning Technique) to measure the level of sustainability for urban form as a practical implication. The rapid urbanization in Iran in the second half of the 20th century has mostly manifested itself in the emergence of large cities and issue of sustainable urban form is becoming ever more important, taking into consideration the contemporary urban population growth and the concern of sustainable development. The Sanandaj City is located on the western side of Iran, and has a population of about 400,000. There has been rapid urbanization during the last three decades in the city and it is therefore chosen as a case study. The results of these measurements indicate that in order to achieve sustainable urban form, the urban policies for development should be changed. A more rational and focused approach is required in development of the urban areas to achieve effi cacy and sustainability. © 2013 WIT Press.