Sustainable development of cities : a case study of Macao

Abstract

Sustainable development catches much attention from public these days and sustainability assessment has been widely used as an instrument in assessing sustainability performance. Since human population are concentrated in cities, sustainable development in city level is worthy of exploring. In this study, an indicator-based assessment framework is constructed in order to reflect local attributes for city sustainability. Among various methods, indicator-based assessment method is prevalent since indicator can provide accurate information and measure important changes. This is particularly relevant to cities undergoing rapid change and development status. In the study, Macao is used as an example to show how sustainability assessment works for changing cities. The reason why Macao is selected is that gaming has been playing an important role in the development process of Macao, especially after the opening of gaming market. High speed development is witnessed in Macao due to gaming. Since the influence of gaming is profound, it is meaningful to see whether gaming can be a force to achieve sustainable development. This study provides an opportunity to interpret economic, social and environmental problems caused by the gaming industry through indicator-based framework, which is not seen in previous literature review. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods are employed for this study: statistical data analysis provides foundation information to the assessment framework; a questionnaire survey is also conducted to explore residents’ opinions on the impacts of gaming and their perspectives about sustainable development. It also helps to complete the framework since some indicators are subjective. Assessment results show that Macao has achieved huge success in economic performance. Liberalization has improved national products and income level. However negative impacts in economic, social and environmental aspects can be observed and they seem to overweight the advantages. Results from questionnaire also reveal similar results. Although gaming brings in fortune, it failed to establish a broad social value due to the nature of gambling. Ironically, both success and failure of Macao lie with gaming. Simplification of industry has obtained huge revenues but also created unstable economic structure. Furthermore, single source of tourist from Mainland makes the structure even more vulnerable. Evidence show that besides economic achievement, other aspects still have a long way to go in order to reach sustainable development. Negative social impacts and deterioration of environmental quality are observed due to rapid development. The results of this study provide an opportunity to understand the impacts of gaming. Recommendations are also provided in order to ease dissatisfaction from the public.