Indicators of socio-environmental equity and sustainability in Ibero- American cities: a variable weighting approach

Abstract

From an equity-centered perspective, urban and environmental processes that negatively impact specific groups while benefiting others are critical determinants of urban sustainability. These complex processes intertwine various analytical dimensions and may differ based on territorial context. Studies primarily conducted in the Global North have aimed to assess environmental equity in cities by developing intricate indices; however, achieving consensus on which variables and indicators to employ or how much weight to assign to each remains elusive. We aimed to identify suitable variables for measuring socio-environmental equity and proposed weighted criteria for evaluation in Ibero-American cities. To accomplish this, we surveyed 41 qualified informants, using a criteria weighting technique to assess the variables and establish their relative importance. We found that inequalities regarding access, quality of green and public spaces, and the impacts of environmental threats were the most recognized issues in the region, with individuals from lower socioeconomic strata being the most affected. Furthermore, we proposed and weighted 14 essential and supplementary variables to evaluate socio-environmental equity, including factors such as access to basic services, housing quality, water and air pollution, the presence of green spaces, extreme weather events, and their effects on public health.