Prioritization of New Green Infrastructures Aimed at Protecting Urban Biodiversity

Urban expansion threatens ecosystems, biodiversity, and public health. Green infrastructure helps promote biodiversity and improve air and water quality, and public health benefits. This study aimed to develop a geospatial model to support decision-making on identifying priority areas for increasing green infrastructure to maintain biodiversity in urban landscapes, focusing on the Atlantic Forest Biome. The model was based on Multicriteria Analysis and a mixed approach to define the criteria, integrating literature review and participatory techniques. Using the Weighted Linear Combination, the model classified areas into low, medium, and high priorities based on four criteria: landscape connectivity, proximity to Protected Areas, rivers and lakes, and distances from streets and roads. The high-priority areas were identified as the most suitable for implementing new green infrastructure. Results provide insights for urban managers seeking to expand green networks and biodiversity-driven infrastructure, transforming urban areas into resilient ecosystems addressing the challenges posed by climate change.