From ecological networks to green infrastructure as mitigation actions: Florence’s Metropolitan Area, Italy

Abstract

This article proposes ecological networks and green infrastructure as mitigation actions to avoid natural disasters produced by climate change and their possible application in the territorial planning of the metropolitan area of Florence, Italy. This city has declared the need to plan the Area Vasta proposing new infrastructure networks. However, how to solve territorial fragmentation, uncontrolled urban sprawling, and protected area disconnection is still unclear. The question is how the territorial planning of the Florence Metropolitan Area can incorporate new tools for the integration of natural and urban systems while avoiding the risk of climate change. In conclusion, integrated territorial planning is necessary to achieve connectivity between natural and urban systems so as to mitigate climate change risks and achieve more resilient metropolitan areas.