Interpreting sustainability and resilience in the built environment

Purpose Conceptual interpretations of sustainability and resilience are widening with discursive use altering the relationship understanding both concepts. By using three city case studies in USA, this paper aims to consider which conceptual operational what is being measured context policy, municipal planning built environment practice. With increasing pressures urbanisation, it imperative frameworks for if Risk-Informed Sustainable Development across multiple sectors be delivered. Design/methodology/approach Three semi-structured interviews have been thematically analysed explore how operationalised at practice levels. Findings City policies, practitioners working different interpretations. Collectively Risk Informed not formally recognised. Policies recognise GHG reductions natural hazard events; guidance stipulates Environmental Impact Assessments based on legal requirements; passive-survivability systematic thinking. Across sectors, Leadership Energy Assessment Method provides a common foundation but used varying requirements. Practical implications Decision-makers should incorporate risk-informed sustainable development, update codes requirements leading exemplary becoming normalised. Social Passive-survivability affordable adopt development principles. Originality/value US data collected from simultaneously Interrelated outlined improve decision-making sectors.