Ecological Connectivity in Urban and Semi-Urban Forests

Abstract The term ‘green infrastructure’ (GI) refers to a network of natural and semi-natural areas designed to provide ecosystem services. Urban green infrastructure focuses on green spaces within cities, including parks, gardens, forests, and water elements (blue infrastructure). It offers numerous benefits such as enhancing biodiversity, mitigating the urban heat island effect, acting as a carbon sink, improving air quality, aiding in stormwater management, and promoting physical and mental well-being. Urban green infrastructure also plays a crucial role in supporting regional habitat connectivity and biodiversity conservation. Urban forests play a crucial role in urban green spaces, acting as vital connectors between rural and urban areas. They serve as stepping stones and corridors for species movement, offering shelter, nesting sites, and foraging opportunities for a diverse range of organisms. However, ensuring successful ecological connectivity requires robust community engagement. Public awareness, education, and active participation in conservation efforts are essential for implementing and maintaining connectivity measures. Spatial urban planning encounters challenges in balancing social needs, financial expectations, and environmental sustainability. Key issues include identifying and designating ecological corridors and networks, integrating ecological principles into spatial planning frameworks, and leveraging technologies such as geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing for green space mapping and assessment. Restoring urban forest habitat patches is crucial for supporting species’ survival and migration. Conservation efforts should consider elements like trees outside of forests and spontaneous vegetation to enhance connectivity. Despite the benefits, managing urban green infrastructure comes with risks. These include biotic homogenisation, the introduction of non-native species, edge effects, human disturbances, lack of diversity, and pressure from increased housing density, all of which can negatively impact biodiversity. Various planning tools and strategies are available to mitigate these risks and ensure the successful implementation of ecological connectivity in urban green infrastructure. These strategies include incorporating green infrastructure into urban master plans, establishing protected areas and wildlife corridors, promoting sustainable land-use practices, and involving local communities and stakeholders in decision-making processes. By considering different scales and site characteristics, cities can achieve effective management of ecological connectivity and create sustainable and resilient environments.