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Urban Green Infrastructure Planning: A Guide for Practitioners
... When applied to urban settings, this concept is referred to as UGI. Urban environments are characterized by intricate interactions between social and ecological systems, which present multifaceted challenges [21][22][23][24][25][26]. Social issues such as population growth, poverty, inequality, and escalating demands for resources like water, food, land, and energy intersect with environmental problems including climate change, biodiversity loss, deforestation, and pollution. ...
... Chomu and Viratnagar display similar patterns of variability, driven by differences in precipitation and vegetation health. This aligns with the findings by Hansen et al. (2017), who highlighted the importance of site-specific planning in regions with fragmented land-use and heterogeneous climatic conditions [23,24]. Targeted interventions, such as agroforestry and riparian buffers, could enhance UGI's potential in these areas. ...
... Chomu and Viratnagar display similar patterns of variability, driven by differences in precipitation and vegetation health. This aligns with the findings by Hansen et al. (2017), who highlighted the importance of site-specific planning in regions with fragmented land-use and heterogeneous climatic conditions [23,24]. Targeted interventions, such as agroforestry and riparian buffers, could enhance UGI's potential in these areas. ...
Urbanization in Jaipur, India, has led to a 42% decline in green cover over the past two decades, exacerbating urban heat, air pollution, groundwater depletion, and reduced livability. Green Infrastructure (GI) offers a sustainable solution, but effective implementation requires robust, data-driven strategies. This study employs geospatial technologies—GIS, remote sensing, and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA)—to develop a suitability model for Urban Green Infrastructure (UGI) planning. Using an entropy-based weighting approach, the model integrates environmental factors, including the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), which fell by 18% between 2000 and 2020; Land Surface Temperature (LST), which increased by 1.8 °C; soil moisture; precipitation; slope; and land use/land cover (LULC). Proximity to water bodies was found to be a critical determinant of suitability, whereas land surface temperature and soil moisture played significant roles in determining UGI feasibility. The results were validated using NDVI trends and comparative analysis with prior studies so as to ensure accuracy and robustness. The suitability analysis reveals that 35% of Jaipur’s urban area, particularly peri-urban regions and river corridors, is highly suitable for UGI interventions, thereby presenting significant opportunities for urban cooling, flood mitigation, and enhanced ecosystem services. These findings align with India’s National Urban Policy Framework (2018) and the UN Sustainable Development Goal 11, supporting climate resilience and sustainable urban development. This geospatial approach provides a scalable methodology for integrating green spaces into urban planning frameworks across rapidly urbanizing cities.
... El abordaje holístico de la PIVI podría conformar un instrumento para enfrentar una amplia gama de desafíos que plantean las ciudades, sus áreas periurbanas y los entornos rurales, tales como recuperación y conservación de la biodiversidad, adaptación al cambio climático, contribución a la producción local de alimentos y a la economía verde y mejora de la cohesión social (Hansen et al., 2017). ...
... Estos abarcan desde la producción de alimentos, madera, hierbas medicinales, agua, polinización de los cultivos, renovación de los suelos productivos, hábitat para la fauna, reservas de energía, y regulación de la temperatura. Los ecosistemas proporcionan además identidad a un lugar, estímulos placenteros y ámbitos para la recreación (Hansen et al., 2017). Entre las contribuciones que puede aportar la PIVI para la mejora de la biodiversidad y calidad ambiental de los recursos identificamos: Incremento de la biocapacidad, protección, mantenimiento y mejora de hábitats naturales, biodiversidad y vida silvestre, mejora de la calidad ambiental, control de la erosión del suelo, mejora y mantenimiento de los valores de las tierras agrícolas, como de la calidad del aire y el agua. ...
... La mitigación concierne a los esfuerzos para reducir el efecto invernadero actual y futuro, las emisiones de gases y a mejorar el almacenamiento de carbono, con acciones cuyos efectos no son inmediatos sino a largo plazo. La adaptación por otra parte conlleva implementar cambios en los sistemas existentes, sean naturales, construidos o sociales, anticipándose con soluciones adecuadas a fin de reducir los efectos adversos, y el efecto de algunas medidas puede experimentarse en un corto plazo (UN-Habitat, 2014;Hansen et al., 2017). ...
En estudios anteriores hemos presentado una caracterización socioespacial contextual de los partidos donde se localiza el Parque Costero del Sur señalando el tratamiento dado a las áreas naturales en los documentos de planificación urbana-regional de la Región Metropolitana de Buenos Aires y área de influencia, y los procesos urbanísticos que caracterizan a dichos partidos en el contexto regional (Baxendale, 2009). El Parque Costero del Sur se ubica en una zona costera de interfase metropolitana urbana-rural donde, a nivel regional, con centro en la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, se distribuyen en forma concéntrica hacia la periferia, áreas correspondientes al aglomerado urbano-entendido éste como continuo edificado-y espacios rurales de población dispersa, que se encuentran bajo la influencia de localidades urbanas de pequeño tamaño y de localidades de población rural agrupada que no superan los dos mil habitantes. Ante esta diversidad de usos y cobertura de suelos, los potenciales conflictos entre los mismos, según intereses sectoriales, lleva a la necesidad de la búsqueda de consensos mediante la práctica de la planificación y gestión del territorio (Municipio de Magda-lena, 2012) cuya concreción no resulta fácil de lograr. En el presente trabajo, se busca señalar las ventajas que el enfoque de la Infraestructura Verde ofrece en la práctica del ordenamiento territorial, a modo de concientizar sobre la importancia de preservar áreas naturales, localizadas en regiones urbanizadas.
... Se compone de dos indicadores: existencia de nodos por tipología y escala y existencia de enlaces por tipología y escala. En relación con el primero, los nodos verdes son elementos que configuran las redes verdes urbanas, como centros-hubs (Benedict y McMahon, 2002), en forma de espacios públicos y privados, reservas, etc. (tipologías), dentro de un sistema multiescalar (Hansen et al., 2017;Sporns, 2012): • Micro-escala. Espacios arquitectónicos y urbanos de dimensiones mínimas: edificios verdes (naturación en muros y azoteas), jardines comunitarios, huertos comunitarios, jardines interiores (privados). ...
... Los enlaces verdes, a su vez, son elementos que configuran las redes verdes urbanas, como conectores, ejes viarios, corredores (Benedict y McMahon, 2002), etc., (tipologías), dentro de un sistema multiescalar (Hansen et al., 2017;Sporns, 2012): ...
Este capítulo explica los principios conceptuales y los criterios metodológicos utilizados para la construcción de la batería de indicadores empleada en la creación de un “Modelo de Evaluación Sistémica de las Redes Verdes Urbanas como Conectoma para la Resiliencia Climática”. En el trabajo se comentan los referentes teóricos y empíricos considerados por cada eje temático: verde urbano, conectómica y resiliencia. Además, se abordan las correlaciones sistémicas entre ellos como parte fundamental de la conceptualización y operacionalización que conlleva esta propuesta de evaluación de la capacidad urbana resiliente.
... These general watercourse intervention principles come in addition to the planning principles for green infrastructures that integrate them as fundamental components both at the urban level and on the territorial (municipal, regional) scale: (i) integration into the city and the region in keeping with the existing built spaces; (ii) spatial and ecological connectivity as a contribution towards establishing a continuous system of green spaces; (iii) the multi-functionality associated with the provision of different functions (socioeconomic, cultural, ecological and environmental) and (regulatory, supply, support and cultural) ecosystem services, and (iv) social inclusion, considering a participative and collaborative approach under the auspices of the planning and intervention process [11]. ...
The core objective of this article is to contribute towards defining a project methodology for rehabilitating fluvial ecosystems in strongly humanized Mediterranean landscapes. To achieve this objective, interrelated with the management and maintenance of these landscapes, we took into consideration the theory and the praxis that frame interventions in watercourses experiencing situations of risk. This article spans these two core, interwoven facets, approaching both the theoretical research and the applied research undertaken within the scope of proposals for rehabilitating five watercourses in Eastern Algarve. The project approach to the restoration of the ecological corridors associated with the downstream sections of the Cacela, Canada, Tronco, Bela-Mandil streams, and the Seco River thus accounted for the shortage and irregularity in the distribution of precipitation and the torrential regime characterizing the region in conjunction with the high level of artificialism displayed by these fluvial systems. Under the auspices of the project process, the aforementioned watercourses were perceived as dynamic, complex, open, and multi-functional socio-ecological systems with a role and importance in ensuring the biological balance and physical stability of the coastal plain and the Ria Formosa lagoon system. The project concept was rooted in a strategy based on intervention flexibility, taking into account a balance between the rehabilitation of natural values and resources and the presence of human activities. Hence, in the rehabilitation proposals developed, the materials applied were entirely natural (plants, wood, and stone), with recourse to technical-scientific concepts and procedures drawn from the fields of Landscape Architecture and Biophysical Engineering.
... Furthermore, the lack of clear and suppor;ve policies has fostered inac;on and supported a sca[ered NBS implementa;on that cannot ensure city-wide benefits (Davies and Lafortezza, 2019). In this sense, planners could play a fundamental role in priori;sing the integra;on of NBS interven;ons into urban adapta;on strategies and policy instruments addressing climate-related hazards (Hansen et al., 2017;Novotny et al., 2010). ...
Pluvial flooding is a growing concern in cities, exacerbated by climate change and rapid urbanisation. To address this issue, contemporary flood risk management focuses on urban resilience and the role of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in providing Water Flow Regulation (WFR). Using the Storm Water Management Model, this study explores the effectiveness of different NBS policies in a densely built municipality, Cormano (Italy). The research identifies green roofs and permeable pavements as key NBS options and assesses their performance under various rainfall conditions. Six policy scenarios are examined, ranging from 'direct' public policies, where the government directly implements NBS, to ‘enabling’ policies incentivising private stakeholders to adopt NBS. Results indicate that the ‘enabling’ policy yields the most significant WFR improvements in the case study. The study underscores the need for multifaceted, integrated, performance based NBS strategies. It emphasises the importance of ‘enabling’ policy instruments, such as regulations and incentives, in promoting NBS adoption.
... Urban open spaces are an important element for urban areas since if planned and designed appropriately they can also act as green infrastructure (Hansen et al., 2017). They would then have the potential to contribute to addressing the climatic, environmental and health issues identified in the Gżira locality. ...
Gżira is a small, highly densely populated town in the Maltese Islands measuring just 0.6 km 2 in surface area, that is facing many ecological and environmental challenges. The Horizon 2020 project, VARCITIES, aims to co-create visionary solutions (VS) with the Gżira community and various stakeholders to address these problems. A characterisation study was carried out as the first step in the processes needed to develop these solutions. This report shows data gathered by the Research Innovation Unit of the Gżira Local Council and University of Malta, with VSs being suggested involving micro-greening and citizen engagement activities to address the lack of green public spaces and health related risks currently perceptible in its geographical location, climate, and infrastructure. Following a series of ethnographic field observations , air quality measurements, academic research and consultations with expert stakeholders three visionary solutions were carefully co-created in order to devise the main Nature-based Solutions (NBS) to be implemented in the pilot city. This article discusses the present situation in Gżira and identifies the challenges of the context, and describes the ways in which VARCITIES attempts to address such problems and how NBS can be of benefit to the Gżira locality and users of space. The main challenges identified about the pilot sites are linked to deprivation of green infrastructure, high levels of air and noise pollution , the Urban Heat Island effect and improper disposal of waste. Visionary Solutions were proposed for these challenges in the form of infrastructural implementation and sociocultural events. These include; the micro-greening of a bus stop area and pop-up activities in Rue d'Argens, a citizen science activity involving residents in conducting air pollution measurements to increase awareness and a green outdoor learning space at St. Clare Gżira Primary School.
Climate change stands out as one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century, exacerbating resource consumption, environmental degradation, human health risks, and occupant discomfort. In response, nearly zero-energy strategies emerge as pivotal solutions for curbing energy consumption and environmental impact in both existing and new constructions. The built environment significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion, with buildings consuming 32% of global energy and emitting 19% of greenhouse gas emissions, according to the International Energy Agency. This underscores the urgency of enhancing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in buildings worldwide. Zero-carbon strategies are indispensable for mitigating emissions during building operation. This chapter delves into the application of nearly zero-energy strategies in the housing sector to combat climate change, employing a literature review approach. Nearly zero-energy buildings, envisioned as structures powered by clean energy to fulfill their energy needs, offer a promising yet ambiguously defined solution. Global discrepancies in defining “clean energy” have led to confusion and hindered the integration of zero-energy building goals into building codes. Despite challenges, the concept of nearly zero-energy buildings catalyzes efforts to reduce energy demand and fossil fuel consumption worldwide, aligning with renewable energy objectives. This study proposes a range of nearly zero-energy strategies applicable to the housing sector worldwide to mitigate and adapt to climate change. Emphasizing resource efficiency and environmental responsibility throughout the building’s life cycle is critical in realizing effective nearly zero-energy building designs. By adopting these strategies, the housing sector can make significant strides towards sustainability and climate resilience on a global scale.
Context
Urban green infrastructure (GI) multifunctionality is widely valued within the academic literature, and underpins calls from policy makers to enhance and expand GI resources. However, there is a gap in understanding concerning how GI connectivity and size influence GI multifunctionality outcomes.
Objectives
The objectives are to: (1) present the current status of research on urban GI multifunctionality (encompassing ecosystem services and disservices) and the GI traits of connectivity and size; (2) identify relationships between these topics within the literature; (3) provide research insights and present actionable GI planning recommendations based on the findings of the research.
Methods
A systematic review of 139 academic sources (2010–2023) was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines.
Results
Key findings include that multifunctionality themes are more commonly considered within research exploring GI connectivity across urban boundaries than within them, where a wider range of flows of ecosystem functions and associated services (and disservices) are enabled. Also, research predominantly focuses on multiple large GI sites, with limited attention to the multifunctionality of single small GI sites that are commonly found in dense urban areas.
Conclusions
Greater consideration is needed of how the manipulation of GI size and connectivity influence multifunctionality outcomes, whilst also recognising the threat of ecosystem disservices emerging as a result of such actions. Through uncovering gaps in understanding concerning these issues, and highlighting topics benefiting from stronger research foundations, this research can support GI policy, practice and research in realising GI multifunctionality outcomes in urban settings, whilst minimising ecosystem disservices.
Urbanization and rapid population growth in Indian cities have brought about significant challenges in maintaining a balance between economic development and environmental sustainability. Green spaces are known to play a vital role in enhancing the quality of urban life, restoring ecological balance, and promoting the well-being of people. Although the benefits of urban green space are well established, researchers and policymakers are still debating their implementation strategies. Research has developed green infrastructure planning principles to assist professionals with planning techniques to aid in these conversations. Thus, this chapter aims to delve into the fundamental green space planning principles that are essential for achieving sustainable urban development. We begin by highlighting the pressing need for sustainable urban development in Indian cities, where issues such as air and water pollution, congestion, and inadequate lifestyles have become pervasive. In response to these challenges, we critically examine six key green space planning principles, established through previous research that serve as a comprehensive framework for guiding sustainable urban development strategies; namely: connectivity, multi-functionality, multi-scale, integration, participation, and continuity. These principles enable green space planning to interweave into a city’s master plan. Through a comprehensive review of the literature and case studies, this research provides a simple understanding of these green space planning principles and their specific relevance to sustainable development. By demystifying these principles, the chapter equips urban planners, policymakers, and stakeholders with a valuable toolkit to navigate the intricate challenges of urbanization and promote sustainable living environments that prioritize human well-being as well as ecological balance.
Background
This study investigated inequalities in the distribution of green space (GS) and the association between inequalities in amounts of GS and preventable deaths across urban neighbourhoods with different Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) scores in the UK.
Methods
Data on preventable deaths, IMD, percentage of grassland and woodland, urban/rural, population size, and density were sourced for each of 6791 middle-layer super output areas (MSOAs) in England, 410 MSOAs in Wales, 1279 intermediate zones (IZs) in Scotland, and 890 super output areas (SOAs) in Northern Ireland (NI). While appreciating the potential for ecological fallacy we related area-based measures of deprivation to deaths. Concentration curves, Lorenz dominance tests, and negative binomial regression models were used to analyse the data.
Results
In urban areas of England, Scotland, and NI, the percentage of grassland was significantly lower among the more deprived neighbourhoods (Lorenz test, p<0.0001). In England, a 1% increase in grassland area was associated with a 37% reduction in annual preventable deaths among the most deprived urban MSOAs (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 0.63, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.76). In NI and Scotland, a 1% increase in grassland area was associated with a 37% (IRR 0.63, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.91) and 41% (IRR 0.59, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.81) reduction in 5-year accumulated preventable deaths in the most deprived urban SOAs/IZs, respectively.
Conclusions
Results suggest that investment in GS in urban areas may be an important public health prevention strategy. There is evidence that investments in the most deprived urban neighbourhoods where the highest inequality currently exists would see the largest effect on preventable deaths.
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URBAN GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING GUIDE
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Credit: City of Edinburgh Council
Credit: City of Edinburgh Council
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(in Portuguese).