Methodological proposals for addressing agroecological design in Periurban areas : a case study in the edges of Milan (Italy)

This study aims to develop an ecological-based design model, applying the theoretical basis of landscape ecology and phytosociology on a pilot area located in the Milan South-Eastern rural edges. The goal was to integrate an all-inclusive approach for agroecological regeneration. Three main guidelines were identified: 1. the rehabilitation of landscape texture; 2. internal diversification; 3. environmental consistency. The study led to a global evaluation of the ecological functionality of the different environmental compartments, analysing their weaknesses and resiliences. Consequently, design criterions were defined, regarding the landscape level (ecotopes diversification) and the single ecotope level (vegetational standards), reconfiguring the current uses and functions and enhancing the biological and structural diversity within the agroecosystem. Finally, an evaluation of the benefits on ecological functionality was carried out, as well as a qualitative assessment of the ecosystem services that can be delivered. This approach enabled to make direct comparisons between actual and project scenarios, supporting the readability of the rebalancing effects attainable on the environmental, social and economic scale.