Agung Sugiri

An empirical examination of sustainable metropolitan development in Semarang City, Indonesia

ABSTRACT In the urban and regional context, conflicts between economic growth and environmental concerns are so intense that sustainable development might be elusive. Evidence indicates that the spatial dynamics in many Indonesian metropolitan regions are not in accordance with sustainability. This research is thus aimed at empirically examining sustainable metropolitan development of Semarang City, based on a model proposed by Sugiri, Buchori, and Soetomo [2011. “Sustainable Metropolitan Development: Towards an Operational Model for Semarang Metropolitan Region.” The International Journal of Environmental, Cultural, Economic and Social Sustainability 7 (5): 301–324]. The methods mainly involve spatial analysis using GIS and comparison of statistical data, supported by complementary qualitative information. The results show that the spatial development of Semarang City tends to be unsustainable, based on important indicators. However, the availability of such local initiatives as spatial plans and environmental impact studies should be considered essential in ensuring sustainable development. In addition, the growth of small-scale industries is prospective to increase public involvement in productive activities.