Eco-sensitive planning approach for urban development: special reference to sustainable use of wetlands

Abstract

Change in society is an indicator of urban growth. At the same time an appropriate planning process is a prerequisite for a balance urban growth. However with urbanization pressure the current urban planning practices have shown that they are insufficient to accomplish the urban growth together with environmental stability. As a result, the deterioration rates of environment in the cities have rapidly increased during the past years. This situation is highlighted by the problems of flood, draughts, water pollution, air pollution etc. To prevent such negative effects on the environment, several planning methodologies have been adopted by conventional planning process. However, depletion of natural resources is continuing. And today it has become a challenge for the urban planners. In order to find out possible solution, the research has attempted to examine the reasons for the failure and to overcome such issues to achieve a sustainable urban development. In this task of understanding the main characteristics of conventional planning process study has been undertaken through analysis of different planning practices with case studies. Problem of ecological degradation which has brought several negative impacts to the urban development, has prompted some countries to re-think its traditional viewpoint of urban planning towards a more sustainable one. As a remedial measure for sustainable development, the research has proposed ecosensitive planning application in the current urban planning process. The study has shown that an eco-sensitive planning approach has the ability to deal with the complexities in the urban environment. To obtain a proper understanding on the complexities of city environment, case study has special reference given for wetland eco system in urban setting. Case study area mainly centers around the most densely populated and ecologically important urban area. Analysis has illustrated characteristics and interaction between urban development and wetland eco-system found in Kotte Urban Area. For this analysis, the principles of ecology become a main theme for the study. The outcome of the research exemplify requirement of holistic approach to the profession of urban planning.