Urban Ecosystems: Function, Management and Development

This textbook on urban ecosystems provides an overview of the ecological structure, functions, and socio-ecological development of cities worldwide. It combines theories of urban development and ecology with practical applications and case studies to identify potential improvements and examples of good ecological urban development. The book emphasizes that cities are not only problem areas but also offer great potential for a good life, and that various urban ecosystems can contribute to this. Four renowned urban ecologists contribute their expertise in sub-areas, ensuring a comprehensive approach. The textbook is suitable for a broad audience of students, teachers, and practitioners in ecology, urban ecology, urban development, sustainability, urban geography, nature and landscape conservation, spatial planning, landscape ecology, social sciences.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 331 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2021
Publisher: Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG

This comprehensive textbook delves into the intricate ecological structure, functions, and socio-ecological development of cities across the globe. In light of the rapidly urbanizing world, it sheds light on the pressing ecological challenges facing cities in the 21st century, including resource efficiency, climate change mitigation, quality of life enhancement, and resilience building. By seamlessly integrating theories of urban development and ecology with practical applications and case studies, the book identifies potential areas for improvement and showcases exemplary examples of sustainable ecological urban development worldwide. It emphasizes that cities are not merely problem zones but also hold immense potential for a fulfilling life. The eco-city concept, therefore, emerges as a tangible and achievable goal, requiring a targeted approach that takes into account the local and regional context.

Four renowned urban ecologists have contributed their diverse expertise to this textbook, ensuring a holistic and comprehensive perspective. Jürgen Breuste, an urban ecologist based at the Paris Lodron University in Salzburg, Austria, delves into sustainable urban development, urban biodiversity, ecosystem services, and eco-cities. Dagmar Haase, a Landschaftsökologin, works at the Humboldt University of Berlin, focusing on urban ecosystem services and land use modeling. Stephan Pauleit, a landscape planner, is affiliated with the Technical University of Munich, where he explores strategies for sustainable urban landscape development. Martin Sauerwein, a geographer, is associated with the University of Hildesheim, where he specializes in geo-ecology, cultural landscapes, geoarchaeology, and soil protection.

This textbook is designed to cater to a wide audience, including students, teachers, and practitioners in the field of urban ecology and urban planning. It offers a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the complex dynamics between urban environments and their inhabitants, as well as for those seeking to develop sustainable and resilient cities of the future. By providing a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, this textbook contributes to the growing body of knowledge on urban ecosystems and their significance in shaping our world.

Weight: 724g
Dimension: 169 x 241 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783662632789
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021