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11 - Integrating nature values in urban planning and design

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 June 2012

By
Robbert Snep  and
Paul Opdam
Edited by
Kevin J. Gaston
Kevin J. Gaston
Affiliation:
University of Sheffield
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Summary

Introduction

In several chapters of this book it is emphasised that urban ecosystems are under constant threat by ongoing urbanisation, by biological invasions and by human use. Other chapters, however, highlight the specific character of urban ecosystems (that by definition is indicated by the dominant role of urban dynamics) and their importance to human wellbeing and quality of life. This divergence illustrates two fundamentally different views of urban ecosystems: as remnants of (previously extensive) natural ecosystems threatened by ongoing human pressure, or as green patches with high use value to people who work and live in the city landscape. From the first perspective urban ecosystems are separated as much as possible from the urban system, and from the second they are an essential part of that system.

These divergent views on urban ecosystems illustrate the type of debate that can be expected from the variety of participants in an urban planning process. They may hold opposing views and economic stakes, but have to develop a common position on the desired future of the urban landscape, and what it would take to achieve this. In this chapter we consider how both the conservation (in terms of defending pieces of highly valued ecosystems against undesired changes) and the enhancement (in terms of creating additional ecological, social or economic value) of urban ecosystems can be integrated into decision making on urban development.

Type
Chapter
Information
Urban Ecology , pp. 261 - 286
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2010

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