Mapping Connectivity: Integrating Ecological Landscape Analysis into Urban Planning in the City of Nanaimo

Ecosystem-based approaches to urban planning and management are essential for promoting sustainable community development. One of the most significant impacts of urbanization to biodiversity is land conversion, which reduces natural habitats and disrupts ecosystem functionality. Ecological networks, including corridors and green spaces, are critical for maintaining biodiversity, yet connectivity planning must balance ecological sustainability with urban growth and socio-economic considerations. This study had two main objectives: (1) identify from the literature which landscape, ecological, land use, and infrastructure considerations are important for an analysis on landscape connectivity analysis done to support local planning, 2) identify areas within the landscape matrix that may be critical for conserving and restoring connectivity in the City of Nanaimo, and 3) identify the land-use and infrastructure factors that present considerations for the prioritization of the potential connectivity areas. The research followed a four-stage process: first, a systematic literature review to identify ecological and socio-economic variables relevant to urban connectivity; second, the calculation of landscape metrics to assess the configuration and composition of the urban landscape; third, least-cost path analysis to identify potential ecological corridors; and finally, the application of circuit theory to evaluate the relative importance of identified corridors and key areas. The research produces insights that can be used for integrating ecological connectivity into urban planning and highlight the importance of balancing conservation priorities with socio-economic realities in rapidly urbanizing environments.

Author dc:creator

• Alonso Ortiz, Cindy, Alexandra

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Newell, Robert

• School of environment and sustainability

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Identifier URI

https://doi.org/10.25316/IR-20542

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:null:10613/28979