Coastal Greenways: Interdisplinarity and integration challenges for the management of developed coastal areas

Abstract

This paper presents the first Greenways studies for a Portuguese costal area. This first approach shall be considered not as a strict detailed plan, but as a schematic vision, which became possible by Geographic Information Technologies-Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems. Integrated template data are human pressures (urban sprawling, rail and motorways), cultural and historic heritage, scenic places, ecology (Natura 2000 biotopes and existing Protected Areas) and other natural values to be protected (streams and ridges). Some major areas where natural hazards may occur (erosion, floods, etc.) are also identified. A first attempt to apply the GAP-analysis procedures had as the outcome, 7 main Greenways. They connect ``Greenspaces'', either to prevent isolation or to strengthen the network as a whole, We advance some very basic ideas for coastal greenways network of protected areas forming a mosaic of large and small nodes linked with corridors, and managed for multiple purposes.