Chapter 3 Summary: Land Use Planning for Environmental Management

Discussion Questions
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Summary:
Environmental land use planning and management is based on the theoretical and historical context provided in these first three chapters. It is a complex, interdisciplinary field that integrates the diverse perspectives of science, politics, policy, and design, in a process of inquiry, collaboration, and creativity. Some of the concepts are elusive (sustainability, quality of life), and some of the process elements are easier said than done (collaborative learning, conflict resolution). Yet it is worth the effort of confronting these conceptual, scientific, and procedural challenges to approach its lofty goals: mitigating effects of natural hazards, achieving more livable and environmental friendly places to live, and protecting and enhancing natural environmental systems.

Chapter 3 Discussion questions:

1. Just as society evolves in its view of the natural environment, so too has its approach to managing the environment. Environmental and land use planning have also changed over time.
a. Drawing from discussions in the first three chapters, characterize how environmental and land use planning has evolved in the U.S. in the past century, especially in the last three decades.
b. Describe where you think environmental planning is headed in the next decade.

2. Chapter 3 describes many environmental effects of land use, including natural hazards, human health, hydrologic systems, productive agricultural lands, ecological resources, energy consumption, cultural heritage, and environmental justice. Select one of these areas and using information from the chapter and two other sources, characterize the problem and discuss means of addressing or solving it.

3. Urban sprawl has been blamed for many of our urban ills.
4. Give a short definition of urban sprawl.
5. Give one social benefit and one social cost of urban sprawl:
a. Benefit:
b. Cost:
6. Give one environmental benefit and one environmental cost of urban sprawl:
a. Benefit:
b. Cost:

7. Compare and contrast the challenges facing environmental land planners working for government agencies for (a) fast growing urban areas, (b) rural areas, and (c) public lands.