Domestic energy sustainability of different urban residential patterns: a New Zealand approach

A quantitative study was undertaken to calculate the potential sustainability of five residential blocks in Auckland, New Zealand (NZ) of differing physical densities. The main study considered five attributes of sustainability: domestic energy, transportation, carbon sequestration, food, and waste. This paper presents the results and mathematical methodology developed for one key aspect, domestic energy. Using aerial photographs, Geographic Information System (GIS) and ecological footprint assessment techniques, domestic energy demand, generation and deficit were calculated. Research outcomes suggest that the classic New Zealand suburb with a density of 18 households per hectare might have the greatest potential to be more sustainable.

Keywords: domestic energy use, ecological footprint, land area equivalent, urban residential patterns, New Zealand, sustainable energy, sustainable development, suburbs, sustainability, geographic information system, GIS