Abstract
Analysis of carrying capacity and site suitability by the systematic application of environmental information an provide a basis for implementing environmentally sensitive and sustainable resource development policies. Based on the availability of public services and environmental and site-specific constraints, a Rural Residential Density Matrix was applied in Santa Cruz County, California, USA to assess the development potential of rural land parcels since 1980. In one case, the Matrix was applied to calculate the allowable development density on a site in Lompico planned for use as a Buddhist retreat center. These calculations revealed higher environmental sensitivity and lower carrying capacity than projected in the proposed plan. Under the constraints of the county's minimum acreage policies and insufficient developable land, the developer cancelled the proposed plan. This example suggests that application of the Matrix at the concept development stage would increase the effectiveness of the prior environmental review and environmental impact assessment (EIA) system in Korea.
