Towards Urban Biodiversity: Simulating Design Parameters for Wildlife-Inclusive Green Infrastructure
Publisher: BAU Journal - Creative Sustainable Development. Type: Research Paper. Date: 2023.
Over half of the global population now lives in urban areas, leading to biodiversity loss. Urban biodiversity can be promoted through green infrastructure, but current approaches are limited. This research aims to develop design parameters for wildlife-inclusive green infrastructure and promote socio-ecological frameworks for interaction between urban communities and wildlife. Using a case study of the Shouf Biosphere Reserve in Lebanon, the research shows that designing green infrastructure with both local ecosystems and urban inhabitants in mind can yield beyond "green" results. Nature-based solutions can provide alternative infrastructure for local ecosystems, and immediate action plans are needed to prevent further species loss.