Doug Noonan: SDG Faculty Profiles: SDGs in Action: Sustainable Development Goals & IU Indianapolis: Global Learning: Office of International Affairs: Indiana University Indianapolis

Doug Noonan (O'Neill)

Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11)

Doug Noonan is a professor in the O’Neill School at IU Indianapolis. His research exemplifies innovation in urban sustainability, disaster resilience, and cultural heritage preservation. His scholarly efforts and applied projects guide strategies for transforming metropolitan environments into inclusive, secure, and vibrant spaces. Detailed below are key initiatives and influential publications that underscore his impact on sustainable urban development.

Notable Publications

Green Building and Environmental Regulation:

In his work, “In the LEED: Racing to the Top in Environmental Self-Regulation”, Professor Noonan examines the dynamics of voluntary green building programs. This study dissects market motivations behind eco-certification and illustrates how private leadership can drive environmental performance without reliance solely on government mandates.

Faculty Profile

Flood Risk and Resilience Analysis:

A series of articles co-authored by Noonan focus on disaster mitigation. One influential paper, “Participation and Non-Participation in FEMA’s Community Rating System”, employs surveys and interviews to uncover reasons behind limited community involvement in flood risk programs. This research offers evidence-based recommendations for bolstering municipal preparedness and reducing insurance costs.

Learn more via his institutional page

Historic Preservation and Urban Equity:

In “The Price of Preserving Neighborhoods: Unequal Impacts of Historic District Designation”, his analysis delves into the socioeconomic effects of heritage conservation. The study evaluates how historic designations influence property values and demographic shifts, providing insights for equitable urban planning.

Faculty Profile

Cultural Policy and Creative Placemaking:

Noonan’s research into cultural districts and arts infrastructure demonstrates how creative investments can stimulate economic growth and community identity. His publications articulate methods for integrating cultural amenities into urban redevelopment strategies, thus supporting both economic vitality and social cohesion.

Groundbreaking Projects

Community Flood Resilience Initiatives:

As co-principal investigator on an NSF-funded project, Noonan helped design frameworks for enhancing community participation in flood mitigation. This endeavor assessed federal programs—such as FEMA’s Community Rating System—and identified obstacles that prevent broader engagement. The project’s findings continue to influence local disaster planning and risk management.

Atlanta BeltLine Decision-Support Tool:

Professor Noonan contributed to a collaborative project in Atlanta, where his expertise shaped a decision-support system for an extensive urban redevelopment program. The tool integrates data on transportation, green space, and public opinion, empowering local authorities to make informed, sustainable infrastructure decisions.

Environmental Justice in Urban Schools:

Another initiative involved evaluating the placement of green schools. By examining nationwide data on eco-certified educational facilities, his work illuminated trends that challenge common assumptions about environmental justice. This project offers guidance for ensuring that sustainability investments benefit a broad spectrum of urban residents.

Policy Impact and Public Engagement

Professor Noonan’s research transcends academia. His role on federal advisory panels—most notably with the EPA’s Environmental Justice Technical Panel—has informed policies that reduce environmental hazards in vulnerable communities. Through partnerships with local governments and nonprofit organizations, his work has led to actionable strategies that enhance urban quality of life.

Key Citations