ABSTRACT
This book explores the evolving understanding of “landscape” through its structures, emphasising a transition from linear corridors to dynamic, open, and multifunctional systems. It integrates multiple perspectives—landscape and ecosystems, planning and implementation, policies and local community engagement—while outlines the need for holistic landscape-based planning and policy-aligned strategies. By framing green infrastructure (GI) as a spatial network, a policy tool, and a strategic approach that integrates ecological, economic, and social benefits, it emphasises the role of GI in delivering ecosystem services (ES) and the importance of financial incentives, stakeholder involvement, and nature-based solutions (NBS) in tackling environmental challenges.
Divided into three sections, the book begins by tracing the evolution of landscape structures concepts and GI methodologies. It focuses on Portugal’s GI mapping, conservation and restoration strategies, and the role of geology, geomorphology, and soil science in shaping Landscape systems, while examining landowners’ engagement. The second section explains how GI serves as the structural basis for ecosystem services (ES), exploring habitat classification, water management, soil conservation, and biodiversity. The final section demonstrates GI at multiple scales in different settings from Germany, Italy, Spain, Chile, Algeria, the USA, and Portugal, showcasing real-world applications of GI in landscape planning.
