This open access book examines deforestation process and proposes sustainable changes for specific Amazonian cities in the state of Rondônia. This state, located in the southwestern region of the Brazilian Amazon, presents a fascinating case for implementing sustainable urban development due to its recent history of urbanization and direct connection with deforestation. Despite the cities' relatively young ages (some are less than 60 years old) and locations in a biodiverse environment, their planning has not followed sustainable practices. Common issues in these cities include insufficient green areas, lacking sewage treatment, dense urban morphology and inadequate infrastructure of streets and highways. The chapters in this book respond to these challenges by presenting evidence, examples and novel methods for rethinking cities in the Amazon region.
This book presents a range of possible approaches to urban planning that are suited to the specificities of Amazonian cities. Key solutions include green and blue urban areas, nature-based solutions and other green infrastructure techniques that provide localised benefits to specific species or communities and have wider knock-on effects. The contributors look beyond old-style urban and landscape planning to explore the unique benefits of a diverse ecosystem. Their research shows how using sustainable techniques in our cities can enhance health and protect biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Given the crucial role of the Amazon region in global climate, prioritizing sustainable solutions and ecological interventions when planning Amazonian cities is especially important. These strategies can guide planners, landscape professionals and local government officials who seek novel opportunities to restore cities and enhance urban development in an integrated and responsive manner.
Prof. Dr. Verônica Garcia Donoso is a Professor in the Architecture and Urbanism program at the Federal University of Santa Maria, Cachoeira do Sul campus, Brazil. In 2022, she was awarded the Georg Forster Research Fellowship for Experienced Researchers by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and conducted her research at RWTH Aachen University, Germany, from 2022 to 2024. She holds a Ph.D. (2017), a Master's degree (2012), and a Bachelor's degree (2008) in Architecture and Urbanism from the University of São Paulo, Brazil. Her research and professional experience focus on architecture and urbanism, particularly in the areas of landscape planning, ecological planning, and urban design.
Prof. Dipl. Ing. Christa Reicher is the Head of the Chair of Urban Design, the Institute for Urban Design and European Urbanism, and the UNESCO Chair in Cultural Heritage and Urbanism at RWTH Aachen University, Germany. Her primary research and teaching areas include qualification strategies in urban development, urban planning, urban renewal and district development, urban and landscape design, as well as housing and residential construction.
