A methodology for creating greenways through multidisciplinary sustainable landscape planning

Area of Science:

• Environmental Planning
• Landscape Ecology
• Sustainable Development

Background:

• Greenways require integrated planning considering both natural and cultural landscape processes.
• Existing methodologies often lack a holistic approach to landscape dynamics and eco-cultural interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a methodology for defining sustainable greenways through eco-cultural analysis and landscape planning.
• To assess the relationship between landscape structure, dynamics, and sustainable greenway development.

Main Methods:

• A three-phase methodology: eco-cultural analysis, synthesis and diagnosis, and proposal.
• Interdisciplinary assessment of biophysical, geomorphologic, vegetation (habitats), and cultural landscape characteristics.
• Application of the methodology in the Azambuja Municipality, Lisbon Metropolitan Area, Portugal.

Main Results:

• Landscape stability is identified as crucial for appreciating greenway elements (natural and cultural).
• The eco-cultural analysis informs priority actions for landscape stabilization and habitat management.
• The methodology successfully guided the proposal for sustainable greenway development in the study area.

Conclusions:

• A balanced and stable landscape enhances greenway value and user experience.
• Sustainable greenways can foster socio-economic activities benefiting rural communities.
• The proposed methodology provides a framework for effective landscape management and land use planning for greenways.