6533b7d5fe1ef96bd1263f8f

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Uwarunkowania przyrodnicze w planowaniu i zagospodarowaniu przestrzennym miast

subject

description

As the main objective of spatial development is to assist in intentional reorganization of space to provide conditions for spatial order and sustainable development of urban areas, the list of factors under consideration should also include natural determinants. Such qualities as geological conditions, the lay of the land, soils, waters, climate, vegetation, fungi, and wildlife represent basic elements of the natural environment that determine the spatial development of municipalities. Therefore, proper recognition and empirical evaluation of natural determinants is of crucial importance as it offers a rational basis for effective planning and spatial development of urban areas. This study provides evidence in support of a thesis that environmental tests and studies should be designed to deliver clear endorsements, limitations or exclusions for any planned development under examination. Urban planning authorities should also present clear recommendations for the forms, indices and parameters of such developments, including construction density (plot ratio), biologically active surfaces, permissible building height, and pattern of development. These types of instruments should be used expertly, and the underlying principles of spatial development should be expressed advertently. Humans represent an important element of the natural environment and any spatial development designed for their benefit, security, health, comfort and esthetical values should also properly address any natural conditions that may apply in this context. The author also demonstrates that the legal requirement of proper representation of natural conditions in spatial planning is already in force, but the present system lacks consequence in practical realization of this duty. Sadly, the defaults of the legal system, lack of knowledge and poor adjustment to the natural capacities and limitations of the natural environment are incessantly present in the practice of municipal planning. Practical effects of this negligence include conflicts of interests, flood risks, local flooding, landslides, air pollution, climate changes, and depletion of biosphere. The author hopes that this study will contribute to the alleviation of such negative effects by raising expert knowledge of the natural determinants and their role in municipal planning and spatial development analyses, to make them more adjusted to the needs of rational development and more effective in providing a cohesive approach to any decision made with regard to spatial development of urban areas.