A vision of data-based decision support system in urban retroffiting from passive house to active neighbourhood

Abstract

Data-based systems to support decision-making process in urban planning and gradual retrofitting are essential for achieving resilient cities or successfully following the European climate and energy efficiency policies. In this paper we outline the on-going research that seeks for a reliable metrics to evaluate the characteristics of built environments in terms of its efficiency and performance on the level of neighborhoods. Specifically, the research develops the evaluation model for Slovenian neighborhood, based on the modular system of indicators and to it connected methodology for the interpretation of resulting values. The envisioned instrument evaluates sustainability performance through five crucial categories: energy efficiency, environmental efficiency, efficient organization and management of the built environment, communities' engagement level, and exploitation of ICT smart solutions to foster other four categories of efficiency. Each of the category is observed from the aspect of three strategic levels of implementation: (1) buildings or households, (2) public and in-between spaces, (3) traffic organization and infrastructure. Such structuring introduces possibilities for evaluating neighborhoods from environmental aspects, built environment characteristics, appearances and functionalities, as well as activities, habits and socio-demographic structure of their inhabitants - all being crucial factors in achieving better performance and efficiency of cities and their parts.