4. Sustainable Urban Development in Santiago de Chile: Background – Concept – Challenges

The main objective of this chapter is to reflect on one element of the conceptual frame for urban development analysis – the goal dimension of the sustainability vision – and its application to the case of Santiago de Chile. The chapter provides essential insights into the sustainability concept in general and the current situation, debates and controversies in Santiago de Chile in particular. Basic sustainability documents are discussed in terms of their local applicability and potential for associated programmes and activities. For the case of Santiago, political and institutional characteristics and current thematic priorities are outlined. The Helmholtz Integrative Sustainability Concept is tendered as an appropriate tool for sustainability analysis. Using indicators as a basic tool, application of the concept to the Santiago case within a broader conceptual landscape provides orientation for a variety of decision-makers. Initial findings on the translation of the concept into indicators and its application to several thematic fields are presented and the most urgent sustainability performance deficits, defined as risks for future development, are highlighted. Based on an overview of the current sustainability policy in the Santiago Metropolitan Region, future challenges are identified and practical recommendations put forward.