Green Infrastructure Gauge: A tool for evaluating green infrastructure inclusion in existing and future urban areas

In the current global momentum of Eco and Smart Growth, Green Infrastructure (GI) concept is proving a popular means to accomplish sustainable development. This study's aim was to develop a Green Infrastructure Gauge (GIG), whose goal was to maximize presence of GI elements and functions in future urban master plans, and gauge GI status in existing urban areas. We derived relative value for each GI function through a questionnaire survey to public workers in 41 Japanese municipalities. It highlights the most valuable GI elements and functions future towns and cities can incorporate, to realize ecosystems and environment wellbeing, and herald sustainable future communities. (C) 2012 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.