Social Sustainability
Walkability
Definition
Walkability describes the extent to which the built environment supports and encourages walking as a safe, comfortable and practical mode of transport and recreation. It is assessed through factors such as sidewalk provision and condition, intersection density, traffic speeds, shade, lighting and the proximity of homes to shops, schools and services.
References
Source imported for editorial provenance.
This reference provides supporting context for how “Walkability” is defined and used.
Overview
How it is used
Urban planners use walkability assessments in neighbourhood design and zoning; public health researchers link walkability to obesity and cardiovascular outcomes; property markets price walkability into real-estate values; and city sustainability plans set walkability targets.
Why it matters
Walking is the lowest-carbon form of transport. Walkable design simultaneously advances climate mitigation, air quality, social equity and health goals, making it a compact indicator of sustainable urban form.