CUGIC: The Consolidated Urban Green Infrastructure Classification for assessing ecosystem services and biodiversity

Abstract

Green infrastructure (GI) classifications are widely applied to predict and assess its suitability for urban biodiversity and ecosystem service (ES) provisioning. However, there is no consolidated classification, which hampers elucidating synthesis and consolidated relationships across ES and biodiversity. In this research, we aim to bridge the gap between urban GI research on ES and biodiversity by providing a standardized common classification that enables consistent spatial analysis. We analyzed GI classifications used across five ES and four taxa in scientific literature. GI classes were analyzed based on name, definition and characteristics. Results were used to create a novel classification scheme accounting for both ES and biodiversity. We show that many GI classes are unique to a ES or taxon, indicating a lack of multifunctionality of the classification applied. Among the universally used classes, diversity in their definitions is large, reducing our mechanistic understanding of multifunctionality in GI. Finally, we show that most GI classes are solely based on land-use or land-cover, lacking in-depth detail on vegetation. Through standardization and incorporation of key characteristics, we created a consolidated classification. This classification is fully available through openly-accessible databases. Our consolidated standardized classification accommodates interdisciplinary research on ES and biodiversity and allows elucidating urban biodiversity and ES relationships into greater detail, facilitating cross-comparisons and integrated assessments. This will provide a foundation for future research efforts into GI multi-functionality and urban greening policies.