Conclusions and Ways Forward: Five Propositions for Bringing Back Ecological Rationality in Spatial Planning

Abstract

In this concluding chapter, a wrap-up of the main arguments of the book is provided and five main courses of action towards a refoundation of spatial planning under the paradigm of ecological rationality are proposed. It is argued that the latter should build on: (1) a stronger expertise on ecology and system theory by planners; (2) a stronger capacity to identify and interpret the broader drivers of changes underlying the local processes of landscape transformation; (3) a greater consideration of agriculture and rural areas by spatial planners and of the ongoing phenomena therein; (4) a higher uptake of emerging spatially explicit tools and method, but maintaining a critical attitude, particularly with reference to ecosystem services; (5) producing actionable research, i.e. delivering concepts, methods and tools with direct applicability in real planning processes. The implications of these efforts in terms of curricular education and training for current and future planners are also discussed.