Metabolism of interconnected cities: A review of the literature and analytical framework

Abstract

The way in which urban areas metabolise resources is determined by several factors such as infrastructure, urban characteristics, energy and material flow, policies and economics, as well as links with other cities. Interconnectivity between urban areas can result in distinct types of clusters, yet Urban Metabolism (UM) literature has often overlooked this aspect.UM literature on interconnectivity between urban areas was reviewed in the Scopus database. 74 peer-reviewed papers were selected for review which focussed on interconnected urban metabolic networks. The initial analytical flow included the identification and classification of linkages and methodologies found in research. The methodologies were categorized into three types: integrated, networked, and integrated-networked. The linkages were classified into three categories: UM capacity, UM requirements, and Urban Characteristics. Reversing this analytical process, a framework was developed that allows researchers to begin with specific research questions (e.g., UM capacity, UM requirements, or urban characteristics) and systematically select the appropriate linkages and methodologies. The analysis revealed that an integrated approach, incorporating spatial analysis, is essential for understanding interconnected urban networks. This framework offers a systematic approach to planning UM studies, particularly in relation to urban spatial linkages.