Urban landscape pattern design from the viewpoint of networks: A case study of Changzhou city in Southeast China

Urban landscape pattern (ULP) is becoming increasingly important for the sustainable development of regions and the whole world. Knowing the ULP status is crucial for making decisions to avoid ecological disasters, reducing environmental problems and industrial pollution, and harmonizing urban development and natural conservation. To link and harmonize various landscape elements and flows in the ULP, this study developed a theoretical scheme from a network viewpoint to explain the spatial interactions among landscape elements and flows. Using a case study of Changzhou city located in southeastern China, this paper tried to integrate ecological factors and socioeconomic conditions using landscape functions modeling and network analysis to establish strategies for ULP design. Because an urban landscape is highly complex with various social, economic, and natural elements, urban landscapes were classified into four subtypes, each with its own specific appearance. Then the paths of socioeconomic and ecological flows were determined using a least-cost distance model. The overall pattern of linkage paths among the ecologically fragile areas could help identify the areas with high ecological risk in Changzhou. For ecologically sustainable, economically sound, and socially just development, a scheme for ecological rehabilitation and security-pattern design was proposed to reduce ecological risks. Finally, this study discussed how to balance economic and ecological needs from the viewpoint of network theory and how to optimize landscape patterns through enhancing functional linkage and strengthening structural connectivity.