Why is the inclusion of the ecosystem services concept in urban planning so limited? A knowledge implementation and impact analysis of the Italian urban plans

Abstract

This article analyses the explicit use of the ecosystem services (ES) concept in the Italian urban planning practice and evaluates whether and to what extent the concept is actually used to deliver planning choices to improve the overall urban sustainability. Based upon a systematic grey literature review of contemporary urban plans, the research reveals that out of 136 urban plans only a very limited number made an explicit reference to the ES concept, primarily in strategic environmental assessment procedures. The article explains reasons for the limited inclusion and explores the possibility to embed ES into urban planning through innovative laws and regulations at different levels of spatial governance.