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Evaluating the Landscape and Ecological Aspects of Urban Planning in Byblos: A Multi-Faceted Approach to Assessing Urban Forests

Author

Listed:
  • Mira Hobeika

    (Landscape and Territory Planning Department, Lebanese University, Beirut P.O. Box 6573, Lebanon)

  • Victoria Dawalibi

    (Landscape and Territory Planning Department, Lebanese University, Beirut P.O. Box 6573, Lebanon)

  • Georgio Kallas

    (Landscape and Territory Planning Department, Lebanese University, Beirut P.O. Box 6573, Lebanon)

  • Alessio Russo

    (School of Architecture and Built Environment, Faculty of Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia)

Abstract

Byblos, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as one of Lebanon’s most ancient urban centers, known for its expansive green spaces. However, ongoing urbanization threatens these valuable areas. This study uses a multi-faceted approach to evaluate the structure and landscape attributes of Byblos’ urban and peri-urban forests (UPFs). Landscape canopy cover, diversity indices, forest structure, and a silhouette perceptual test were assessed across 24 streets in the city center, residential zones, and areas with heavy vehicular traffic. Findings reveal that 28% of Byblos’ canopy cover is concentrated mostly in the northeastern region. Native tree species account for 30% of the total, and a notable variation in tree diversity exists among different land-use types (Shannon diversity index (H) was 1.02 for the city center, 1.35 for residential streets, and 0.64 for vehicular areas). Additionally, a normal J-shaped distribution of tree diameters was identified across all street types. This study highlights a correlation between tree silhouettes and visual preferences, with densely spreading canopies being favored. Residential trees demonstrate the highest structural diversity and varied blossoming seasons. This research represents the first investigation into the current state of urban forestry in Byblos and offers recommendations for sustainable management and planning strategies.

Suggested Citation

  • Mira Hobeika & Victoria Dawalibi & Georgio Kallas & Alessio Russo, 2024. "Evaluating the Landscape and Ecological Aspects of Urban Planning in Byblos: A Multi-Faceted Approach to Assessing Urban Forests," Land, MDPI, vol. 13(4), pages 1-19, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:13:y:2024:i:4:p:464-:d:1370662
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Jones, Benjamin A., 2021. "Planting urban trees to improve quality of life? The life satisfaction impacts of urban afforestation," Forest Policy and Economics, Elsevier, vol. 125(C).
    2. Kathleen L. Wolf & Sharon T. Lam & Jennifer K. McKeen & Gregory R.A. Richardson & Matilda van den Bosch & Adrina C. Bardekjian, 2020. "Urban Trees and Human Health: A Scoping Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(12), pages 1-30, June.
    3. Ordóñez Barona, Camilo & Eleuterio, Ana Alice & Vasquez, Alexis & Devisscher, Tahia & Baptista, Mariana Dias & Dobbs, Cynnamon & Orozco-Aguilar, Luis & Meléndez-Ackerman, Elvia, 2023. "Views of government and non-government actors on urban forest management and governance in ten Latin-American capital cities," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 129(C).
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