Why is it important?
Development inevitably changes the surrounding natural environment. Careful green network planning and functional assessment help maintain and enhance ecological connectivity, safeguard opportunities for species movement, and prevent the loss of important ecological connections and functions.
A well-planned and functional green network:
- helps prevent and resolve conflicts between nature conservation and development interests;
- provides greater legal and spatial certainty for authorities and developers;
- supports sustainable and spatially informed decision-making throughout the planning process.
Anni Kurisman
Our Experience
Our aim is to ensure that spatial planning decisions are ecologically sound and work in practice.
We have extensive experience in green network planning, assessing ecological functionality and connectivity, analysing the impacts of development projects, and designing effective mitigation measures.
We have prepared expert assessments of the impacts of specific development projects, such as residential development and infrastructure projects, on green networks. We have also contributed to the preparation of green network guidelines and baseline studies, helping to shape the way green networks are planned and assessed in Estonia today.
Our team includes an experienced wildlife expert who can, where necessary, carry out additional wildlife surveys to assess the functioning of the green network, identify key wildlife movement routes and potential conflict areas, and develop appropriate mitigation measures.
Our Services
Green network planning and assessment throughout the planning and development process
- Developing and refining green networks in spatial plans
We develop and update green network solutions in comprehensive and thematic spatial plans. We assess the objectives and functions of different parts of the network, ecological connectivity and their relationship with the surrounding landscape. We also consider existing and planned land use to create green networks that fulfil their intended functions, are ecologically sound and work in practice.
- Assessing the impacts of development projects on green networks
We assess how proposed development projects may affect the functionality and connectivity of green networks, and whether different parts of the network can continue to fulfil their intended functions as the landscape changes. We identify potential conflicts and risks and assess whether, and under what conditions, the proposed development can be compatible with a functioning green network. Where appropriate, we propose suitable mitigation measures.
- Expert assessments of existing green network areas
We assess whether green networks designated in spatial plans remain justified and functional, and whether different parts of the network fulfil their intended functions. Our assessments consider the spatial structure and connectivity of the network alongside existing land use and development needs. Where necessary, we provide recommendations for refining or redesigning the green network and adjusting the associated land-use conditions.
Contact Us
If a proposed development or spatial planning decision could affect the functioning of a green network, seeking expert advice at an early stage can help prevent conflicts and and determine which solutions are both ecologically sound and practical.
We assess the potential impacts on green networks and help determine whether, and under what conditions, development can be compatible with a functioning green network. Where appropriate, we also help identify suitable mitigation measures.
Email us: dge@dge.ee