Green Infrastructure in Coastal Landscapes: Ecological Design, Hydrological Function, and Sustainable Land Use Guidance

Abstract

Coastal landscape modification, specifically the conversion of forests to residential and commercial development, coupled with potential climate change impacts, could lead to irretrievable natural resource impairment. An assessment of existing resources (green infrastructure) and their benefits via ecosystem services provides useful guidance for resource protection to enhance community resilience. These landscape elements are complex within and between varying scales; therefore stakeholders need clear, relevant, comparable, and easily accessible information for effective decision-making.