16. Functions of buffer plantings in urban environments

Abstract

Buffer plantings are linear strips of vegetation that have been either retained or purposefully planted in urban environments. As biologically diverse ecosystems interspersed among much simpler systems, buffer plantings function as environmental regulators that help stabilize the urban ecosystem while simultaneously separating incompatible land uses and providing visual amenity values. Sensitive land planning integrates existing buffers and new plantings into the urban fabric to maximize potential benefits. Mandatory tree protection and planting programs provide planners with a means of promoting the use of buffer plantings to enhance the livability of our cities. A comprehensive program would restrict the removal of existing vegetation, provide protective measures for vegetation not removed during development, and require planting of additional buffers with new developments. Standards that offer developers a variety of options to achieve a specified level of performance are currently preferred by most planners and developers. Further research is needed to help designers to design buffers that provide the functional benefits required, and which are relatively inexpensive to plant and maintain.