Konijnendijk, C.C., 2005, New perspectices for urban forests: introducing wild woodlands, in: Kowarik, I. & S. Korner, ‘Wild urban woodlands’, , Berlin
- Author : Konijnendijk, C.C.
- Year : 2005
- English Title : New perspectices for urban forests: introducing wild woodlands
- Published in Book : Wild urban woodlands
- Pages : 33-45
- Abstract in English : Although antagonist by definition, nature and cities have had a much more complec relationship. Urbanisation has meant that natural areas have become cultivated and often overexploited and that nature has been removed as a dominant factor in the dail life of an increasing number of people. But this also trigger a longing to get back to nature and desireto bring nature to cities. It is genarally accepted that nature also has its place in cities, not least of all represeted by trees and woodlands. The question of what form of nature is represented --- ranging from highly cultivated and controled to “wild” meaning with limited or no human interference – is more difficult one. The fact that urban residents complex perceptions of what is “wild” must be taken in account doens not make the work of green-space planners and managers easier. In urban areas where demands and pressures are high and space for nature is limited, some form of manage ment seems nrcessary for most parts of the urban forest. In order to accommodate social as wall as ecological considerations, the concept of close-to-nature forest mangement has gradually become popular in urban forestry. Still, in order to serve multyfunctinal needs , choices will need to be made, as not all functions can be realised in every part of the urban forest…..Proper communication and information about efforts to enhance natural values seem crucial for furter enhancing public understanding and awareness. There is definetely a role for “wild woodland” in ann urban-forestry context, as long as different meanings of “wild”based on residents perceptions and preferences are considerd, and management measures favouring nature and natural processes are properly communicated.
- Comments/Notes : KEYWORDS: urban woodlands, urban forestry, perceptions, benefits, disadvantages