Reinventing waterscapes; transforming rurban landscapes to improve water quality and access to water with ecosystem services

Abstract

Can ecosystem services and design strategies for community engagement be used to mitigate human impact on aquatic environments? In this thesis the main catchment area of the river Götaälv in Sweden and specifically the sub-catchment area between lake Vänern and the sea has been investigated as a case study to understand how spatial development in key locations can be used to reduce harmful impact on freshwater bodies. Investigations have also been done on how spatial transformation for improving the chemical and ecological status of freshwater can also contribute to social welfare in urban environments. The investigations have been done on different scales. Mapping on a regional scale defined key locations to intervene in the sub-catchment area, but also what problems relates to spatial transformation and what has to be solved within other fields. One of these locations where then selected as an example of how spatial transformation on a smaller scale can look like to improve water status. The transformation is also a critical reflection of how urban expansion have been relating to water historically. To support the design of the key location different principles for spatial water purification have been developed. All stages of the project were supported by evidence-based design with different methods such as literature reviews, interviews, GIS analysis and generative design. Theories around social ecological urbanism and participatory design was used to support the project. Ecosystem services have been used to frame the project and understand the relation between ecological and social aspects of spatial planning around water. The most important outcome of the theses has been to distinguish how architects and planners can approach similar projects that intends to support better water quality. Mainly in the design phase it has also been important to clarify how spatial planning for healthy status of freshwater bodies can be beneficial even for people and where synergies occur.