Author(s)

T. Andresen, M. J. Curado & V. Silva

Abstract

We present the results of the application of a study to define an ecological network in the Oporto Metropolitan Area-AMP (Portugal). There were two aims in mind: 1) to counterbalance the impermeabilisation due to the rapid urban expansion of the last 20 years and render the metropolitan landscape both legible and ecologically functional, and 2) to guide the review of the Town Master Plans of the nine municipalities making up the AMP in articulated form so as to define strategies and opportunities to valee the environment, landscape and quality of life. We emphasise the methodology employed and produce a conclusion on the opportunities of ecological networks for metropolitan sustainable planning and management which contradicts the previous predominant mainly sectorial view and lends visibility to the territorial base and opting for an integrating view of resources as a way to organise the land and enhance quality of life. Keywords: ecological networks, landscape sustainable planning, landscape character, metropolitan areas dynamics, multifunctional landscapes. 1 Introduction The concept of the ecological network gained tremendous visibility from the 1980s onwards, having become an irreplaceable tool in the theory and practice of sustainable landscape planning. What is meant by an ecological network is the basic landscape system governing the functioning of the natural dynamics, with specific aptitudes for human activities and having multiple yet complementary purposes, such as agro-forestry, conservation of natural and cultural heritage, leisure activities and tourism. To safeguard this it is important to enhance the unique assets, both natural and cultural, and minimise the impacts of natural

Keywords

ecological networks, landscape sustainable planning, landscape character, metropolitan areas dynamics, multifunctional landscapes.