Title: Integrating sustainability concepts and First Nations values in an urban neighbourhood: a case study of Carney Hill neighbourhood, Prince George, British Columbia

Authors: John Curry, Tonianne Mynen

Addresses: School of Environmental Planning, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, British Columbia V2N 4Z9, Canada. ' Integrated Land Management Bureau, Government of British Columbia, #403 10023-97 Avenue, Fort St. John, BC V1J 1N8, Canada

Abstract: In 2002, the Carney Hill neighbourhood in Prince George, British Columbia, was identified as the highest risk neighbourhood in the province for healthy child development. This paper describes the community development efforts underway since 1992 to create a positive healthy neighbourhood for residents of all ages. A review of literature explores First Nations traditional value and belief structures, the concept of integrative planning, theories of social learning and principles of community sustainability. Concepts of social capital are reviewed and the concept of sustainability capital is introduced. A case study approach is used to explore the community development process, identify positive and negative elements within the neighbourhood and to suggest methods and activities to aid in the facilitation of positive changes within the neighbourhood. Finally, ideas to integrate First Nations values and beliefs and relevant concepts of environmental sustainability within the development process are discussed.

Keywords: aboriginal people; First Nations values; integrative community planning; neighbourhood development; social capital; sustainability capital; sustainable development; Prince George; Canada; integration; urban neighbourhoods; child health; social learning; environmental sustainability; sustainable society.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSSOC.2010.030561

International Journal of Sustainable Society, 2010 Vol.2 No.1, pp.26 - 49

Published online: 21 Dec 2009 *

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