Assessment of the environmental quality of neighbourhoods in the context of sustainable development: case of the Plain West in Annaba, Algeria

This work is a part of the current issues related to environment and sustainable urban development concerns. It focuses on the assessment of the environmental quality of a residential neighbourhood of Plain West in Algeria by a shared diagnosis method for sustainable development “HQDIL” and the indicator repository “INDI”, whose objective is to contribute to a better performance, and improve the environmental quality in the neighbourhoods of emerging countries. This assessment targets four main parameters, namely energy, water, mobility, and landscape and visual quality. The analysis results indicate that the major problems observed in the neighbourhood are primarily related to these parameters. Specific measures and actions are conducted in order to master the current situation of the neighbourhood, such as improving energy and water resources management, and promoting alternative and sustainable modes of urban mobility, by the use of decision support tools. The application of a holistic method that includes both subjective and objective aspects is necessary to determine the advantages and the dysfunctions of neighbourhoods. These can lead stakeholders to better understand their projects. Nevertheless, some limitations are observed concerning the values of references which are not adapted to the local context. That makes it indisputable to establish an evaluation referential for Algeria, and involve a sustainable urban development policy and collaboration between all the people concerned, encouraging participation and communication, and improving legislative texts.