Urban Greening and Reforestation (Hardback)

In an age of rapid urbanization and intensifying climate change, cities face profound environmental challenges, including urban heat islands, deteriorating air quality, biodiversity loss, increased flooding risks, and diminished human well-being. Urban greening and reforestation emerge as vital nature-based solutions to build resilient, sustainable, and livable urban ecosystems.
This open-access volume, Urban Greening and Reforestation, compiles cutting-edge research and practical insights from leading international experts in urban ecology, plant science, forestry, environmental planning, and related fields. Edited by Khalid Rehman Hakeem, Professor of Biological Sciences at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, a distinguished researcher with extensive expertise in plant stress physiology, biotechnology, and phytoremediation, the book presents a multidisciplinary perspective on transforming urban landscapes.
The chapters investigate innovative strategies such as large-scale urban afforestation, mangrove rehabilitation in coastal urban areas, vertical greening systems including green roofs and walls, integration of native species to enhance biodiversity, ecosystem-based adaptation for climate resilience, community-driven initiatives, and green infrastructure planning. These approaches not only mitigate carbon emissions, purify air, manage stormwater, and provide cooling effects but also support wildlife habitats, improve mental and physical health for residents, and promote social equity in green space access.
While acknowledging persistent challenges, such as limited land availability, funding constraints, maintenance requirements, species selection in harsh urban conditions, and ensuring equitable distribution, the book emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, policy integration, community engagement, and adaptive management to overcome barriers and achieve long-term success.
Ultimately, this work serves as a comprehensive resource for policymakers, urban planners, researchers, landscape architects, and practitioners, offering evidence-based guidance to advance greener, healthier, and more equitable cities in alignment with global sustainability goals.