Z E M C H 2 0 1 2 I n t e r n a t i o n a l C o n f e r e n c e
90
Figure 2 Project of the Extended Metabolic Model of Human Settlements.
Source: Id
The schema of the model shown above illustrates the operation of an urban settlement.
First, there is the Entry of Inputs, that supply the city. They are water, food products,
construction materials, soil, energy and others. The raw materials play an important role
in the Dynamics of the Settlement, through them it is possible can prioritize
transportation, supply and infrastructure.
The results of this process are:
−
The Habitability, that bigger, is better for the quality and sustainability of Urban
Settlement;
−
The Output of the Inputs, that the smaller, more sustainable is the Settlement.
Note in this process, the inputs control is critical to the efficiency of Urban Settlement. In
so far entrances’ control as exit, because the habitability depends on these factors.
Having the Metabolic Model as a fundamental basis, it is possible to vary the indicators
according to the objectives and viability of the town. Each indicator needs more details
and explanations, but the basic idea remains. There is a list of about 150 indicators
suggested by the World Bank (WORLD EUROPEAN BANK
apud
EUROPEAN
COMMISSION, 1998) and the Center for Urban Settlements of the United Nations. The
indicators are divided into 5 areas specified in the picture to follow:
