A Framework for Optimizing Green Infrastructure Networks Based on Landscape Connectivity and Ecosystem Services

Xuemin Shi, Mingzhou Qin, Bin Li and Dan Zhang
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Xuemin Shi: The College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
Mingzhou Qin: The College of Geography and Environment, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
Bin Li: The College of Geography and Environment, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
Dan Zhang: Yellow River Conservancy Technical Institute, Kaifeng 475004, China

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 18, 1-23

Abstract: Optimizing the layout of green infrastructure (GI) is an effective way to alleviate the fragmentation of urban landscapes, coordinate the relationship between urban development and urban ecosystem services, and ensure the sustainable development of cities. This study provides a new technical framework for optimizing GI networks based on a case study of Kaifeng, an exemplar of many ancient cities along the Yellow River in China. To do this, we used a morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA) methodology and combined it with Procedure for mAthematical aNalysis of lanDscape evOlution and equilibRium scenarios Assessment (PANDORA) model to determine the hubs of the GI network. Then we employed a least-cost path approach to simulate potential corridors linking the hubs. We further identify the key ‘pinch points’ of the GI network that need priority protection based on circuit theory. Altogether, this framework takes patches that have a high level of ecosystem services and are more important in maintaining overall connectivity as hubs, thereby improving the accuracy of hub identification. Moreover, it establishes a direct connection between GI construction and ecosystem services, and improves biodiversity conservation by optimizing the network structure of GI. The results of the case study show that this framework is suitable for GI planning and construction, and can provide effective technical support for the formulation of urban sustainable development strategies.

Keywords: green infrastructure; PANDORA; MSPA; landscape connectivity; ecosystem services; Kaifeng (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (7)

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