Constructing sustainable futures: from models to competing pathways

Guy, S; Marvin, S

Abstract

This paper begins to build a conceptual framework that acknowledges the multiplicity of pathways towards different sustainable futures that often co-exist within a single city. There are three stages to the argument: the shift from the concept of a singular towards multiple models of what the sustainable city might become; the rejection of the simplistic use of models and the development of competing pathways to sustainable cities; and the recognition that a wide diversity of sustainable urban futures are likely to co-exist within a single city. The analytical framework of social constructivist theory developed here usefully demonstrates the contingent and contextual nature of technological innovation and building design.

Citation

Guy, S., & Marvin, S. (2007). Constructing sustainable futures: from models to competing pathways. In M. Deakin, G. Mitchell, P. Nijkamp, & R. Vreeker (Eds.), Sustainable urban development volume 2: the environmental assessment methods. Routledge

• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2007
• Deposit Date: Jul 8, 2011
• Publisher: Routledge
• Series Title: Sustainable urban development series
• Book Title: Sustainable urban development volume 2: the environmental assessment methods.
• ISBN: 9780203417034
• Related Public URLs: https://www.escholar.manchester.ac.uk/uk-ac-man-scw:1b3124