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Designing for Urban Biodiversity in Post-Military Landscapes: A Methodological Framework from Warsaw

Author

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  • Beata Fornal-Pieniak

    (Department of Environmental Protection and Dendrology, Institute of Horticultural Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska St. 166, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland)

  • Szymon Dmitruk

    (Department of Environmental Protection and Dendrology, Institute of Horticultural Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska St. 166, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland)

  • Marcin Ollik

    (Department of Biometry, Institute of Agriculture, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska St. 166, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland)

  • Filip Kamionowski

    (Department of Environmental Protection and Dendrology, Institute of Horticultural Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska St. 166, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland)

  • Magdalena Pawełkowicz

    (Department of Plant Genetics, Breeding and Biotechnology, Institute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska St. 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland)

Abstract

Urban green spaces play a crucial role in mitigating the biodiversity loss caused by dense development and land-use transformation. This study explores the ecological and spatial potential of Fort Augustówka, a neglected military fortification in Warsaw, Poland, as a multifunctional green space that enhances local biodiversity. Through field surveys, vegetation assessments, SWOT analysis, and user profiling, we identified key ecological features and constraints of the site, located within a Vistula River riparian zone. This study employed phytosociological analysis (Braun–Blanquet method), spatial mapping (using AutoCAD and SketchUp), and stakeholder observations to assess the value of semi-natural habitats including ruderal vegetation, meadows, and aquatic zones, as well as urban tree stands and conventionally managed greenery. Our results show that semi-natural habitats, including meadows and reed beds, achieved higher ecological value scores than conventionally managed greenery, while invasive species significantly reduced biodiversity in several zones. Based on these findings, we propose a spatial revitalisation model grounded in native species restoration, ecological connectivity, and low-impact recreational design. This study highlights an innovative approach that integrates existing vegetation, historical structures, and human well-being, creating a design concept beneficial for residents and visitors alike. This work also demonstrates how post-military landscapes can support biodiversity in metropolitan areas and offers a transferable model for ecological urban design rooted in place-based analysis. The findings contribute to broader discussions on nature-based solutions and urban rewilding in post-socialist urban contexts.

Suggested Citation

  • Beata Fornal-Pieniak & Szymon Dmitruk & Marcin Ollik & Filip Kamionowski & Magdalena Pawełkowicz, 2025. "Designing for Urban Biodiversity in Post-Military Landscapes: A Methodological Framework from Warsaw," Land, MDPI, vol. 14(9), pages 1-22, September.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:14:y:2025:i:9:p:1887-:d:1750072
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