Landscape ecology as a foundation for landscape architecture: applicationin Malta

摘要

Landscape ecology has the potential to contribute towards a holistic approach in landscape architecture. Such an approach can simultaneously inform, guide and inspire designers towards landscapes that are environmentally sustainable as well as being culturally and aesthetically appropriate. This paper reviews two possible ways in which landscape ecology can advance landscape architecture: (a) by providing a holistic and dynamic framework that contributes towards an alternative landscape design (e.g. ecological landscape design); and (b) by establishing the scientific knowledge (e.g. landscape heterogeneity biological and ecological diversity and ecological networks) that can inform the design process at the local and regional levels.