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Marine urbanization: an ecological framework for designing multifunctional artificial structures
Author(s) -
Dafforn Katherine A,
Glasby Tim M,
Airoldi Laura,
Rivero Natalie K,
Mayer-Pinto Mariana,
Johnston Emma L
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
frontiers in ecology and the environment
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.918
H-Index - 164
eISSN - 1540-9309
pISSN - 1540-9295
DOI - 10.1890/140050
Subject(s) - urban sprawl , urbanization , ecological engineering , popularity , marine ecosystem , ecology , environmental resource management , underwater , computer science , environmental planning , urban planning , ecosystem , environmental science , geography , political science , biology , archaeology , law
Underwater cities have long been the subject of science fiction novels and movies, but the “urban sprawl” of artificial structures being developed in marine environments has widespread ecological consequences. The practice of combining ecological principles with the planning, design, and operation of marine artificial structures is gaining in popularity, and examples of successful engineering applications are accumulating. Here we use case studies to explore marine ecological engineering in practice, and introduce a conceptual framework for designing artificial structures with multiple functions. The rate of marine urbanization will almost certainly escalate as “aquatourism” drives the development of underwater accommodations. We show that current and future marine developments could be designed to reduce negative ecological impacts while promoting ecosystem services.