Background and Objectives

Urban green network development and ecological connectivity enhancement in landscapes, especially in metropolises like Tabriz, are central to urban planning. These networks preserve biodiversity, elevate citizen well-being, and strengthen environmental resilience. Yet, rapid urbanization has degraded green spaces, fragmented habitats, and weakened ecological ties. This study examines the ecological network structure in Tabriz's District 2 and proposes enhancements for its functionality and quality.

Materials and Methods

Geospatial data on land use and vegetation in District 2 of Tabriz informed this analysis. Ecological connectivity was evaluated using ArcGIS Pro, Conefor, and Linkage Mapper. Graph models and least-cost path theory assessed green patch linkages and optimal corridors. Metrics including edge density (ED), landscape shape index (LSI), mean patch size (MPS), and patch number (NP) were quantified. These tools identified critical zones and actionable improvements.

Results and Discussion

Unrestrained urban growth over four decades in District 2 has surged built-up areas by 220% and shrunk green spaces by 3.7%. Elevated ED and LSI signal green space fragmentation and ecological disunity. Declining MPS and rising NP indicate habitat dispersal and shrinkage, endangering biodiversity, livability, and resilience. Indices like largest patch index (LPI) and cohesion reveal sustainability neglect, eroding natural networks and public health. Mitigation strategies encompass ecological corridors, land-use optimization, and nature-based solutions to restore linkages and bolster resilience.

Conclusion

Findings underscore rapid urbanization's harm to District 2's ecological framework. Restoration via corridors, fallow land protection, landscape ecology planning, and ecological bridges is advocated. These enhance network efficacy and model solutions for similar cities. Future planning must prioritize ecological principles and sustainability to curb degradation and balance growth with conservation.