A platform for research: civil engineering, architecture and urbanism
A platform for research: civil engineering, architecture and urbanism
Urban Green Infrastructure Loss (2002-2022) and its Environmental Implications in Malawi's Urban Areas
Rapid urbanization poses a major challenge to environmental sustainability and requires the integration of ecological principles into urban planning. This study analyses the environmental impact of urban green infrastructure (UGI) loss in Malawi's largest cities: Blantyre, Lilongwe, Mzuzu and Zomba. Remote sensing analyses were used to investigate the changes in land use and land cover between 2002 and 2022. The results show a significant decline in green spaces, with built-up areas increasing at the expense of vegetation and water bodies. Encroachment into natural landscapes threatens biodiversity and water quality and exacerbates the effects of the urban heat island. The annual rates of change emphasize the urgency of proactive measures to preserve UGI and promote sustainable urban development. Despite the policy commitment to sustainability, challenges persist due to insufficient coordination and funding. Addressing these problems requires evidence-based strategies and policies tailored to the Malawian context. By understanding the consequences of UGI loss and implementing targeted solutions, Malawi can strive to build healthier, more resilient, and sustainable cities.
Urban Green Infrastructure Loss (2002-2022) and its Environmental Implications in Malawi's Urban Areas
Rapid urbanization poses a major challenge to environmental sustainability and requires the integration of ecological principles into urban planning. This study analyses the environmental impact of urban green infrastructure (UGI) loss in Malawi's largest cities: Blantyre, Lilongwe, Mzuzu and Zomba. Remote sensing analyses were used to investigate the changes in land use and land cover between 2002 and 2022. The results show a significant decline in green spaces, with built-up areas increasing at the expense of vegetation and water bodies. Encroachment into natural landscapes threatens biodiversity and water quality and exacerbates the effects of the urban heat island. The annual rates of change emphasize the urgency of proactive measures to preserve UGI and promote sustainable urban development. Despite the policy commitment to sustainability, challenges persist due to insufficient coordination and funding. Addressing these problems requires evidence-based strategies and policies tailored to the Malawian context. By understanding the consequences of UGI loss and implementing targeted solutions, Malawi can strive to build healthier, more resilient, and sustainable cities.
Urban Green Infrastructure Loss (2002-2022) and its Environmental Implications in Malawi's Urban Areas
Muva, Glory Angel (author)
2024-05-01
doi:10.59324/ejtas.2024.2(3).40
European Journal of Theoretical and Applied Sciences; Vol. 2 No. 3 (2024): European Journal of Theoretical and Applied Sciences; 517-530 ; European Journal of Theoretical and Applied Sciences; Том 2 № 3 (2024): European Journal of Theoretical and Applied Sciences; 517-530 ; 2786-7447 ; 10.59324/ejtas.2024.2(3)
Article (Journal)
Electronic Resource
English
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