On the Use of Machine Learning and Key Performance Indicators for Urban Planning and Design

Global efforts to achieve climate neutrality increasingly rely on innovative urban planning and design strategies. This study focuses on the identification and application of key performance indicators (KPIs) to support policymakers and local authorities in driving sustainable urban transitions. Using a real-life case study of European cities and countries, this research leverages data analytics and machine learning to inform decision-making processes. Specifically, the k-means clustering algorithm was employed to group countries based on socioeconomic and environmental KPIs, while principal component analysis was used to rank the most influential indicators in shaping these clusters. The analysis highlighted GDP per capita, corruption perception, and climate-related expenditure as key drivers of clustering. Additionally, time series analysis of KPI trends demonstrated the impact of policy decisions over time. This study showcases how machine learning and data-driven approaches can provide valuable insights for urban planners, offering a robust framework for evaluating and improving climate-neutrality strategies at both city and country levels.