Biodiversity integration in coastal urban planning of Abu Dhabi: a case study of South Mussafah
Biodiversity integration in coastal urban planning of Abu Dhabi: a case study of South Mussafah

Summary/Abstract: Biodiversity integration in contemporary coastal cities is a growing global concern for urban planners today. Coastal cities can host a high richness of urban biodiversity which can assist in providing cultural and environmental ecosystem services. That said, there is limited inclusion of biodiversity in most planning instruments, as they are designed based on public health, safety, and economic growth. In this light, the research examines what components of biodiversity can be sustainably integrated into neighbourhood master plans, urban policies, design strategies, and land-use zoning within the context of Abu Dhabi coastline, the United Arab Emirates as a case study. The research objective is to present a review of the current challenges facing biodiversity in the emirate by assessing the present legislations, governmental plans, and policies and then proposing solutions that can be adapted to counteract the erosion of its natural treasures. For this purpose, experts, and professionals working in the field of biodiversity conservation, urban development, and policy-making, were interviewed for primary information. Additional data were collected through ArcGIS tool analysis, published information from governmental and non-governmental sources to cultivate strategic ecological solutions. This includes providing planning recommendations for protecting urban biodiversity based on ecological knowledge while focusing on the inclusion of environmental issues in the urban development planning process.

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