Formation of the ecological framework of Belgorod

Introduction. The contradictions between the intensification of anthropogenic activities and the need to preserve and strengthen natural complexes are becoming more acute. The rapid growth of the urban population, the global problem of climate change worldwide, and the high level of anthropogenic impact on natural landscapes require modern cities to implement strategies for sustainable development of territories in general and improve techniques to strengthen the natural and ecological framework in particular. The purpose of the study is to identify regional features and problems of the formation of the ecological framework of Belgorod and to develop recommendations for ensuring a sustainable highly urbanized environment of a large city.Materials and methods. A comprehensive approach, an analytical review of territorial planning documents and urban planning zoning, a problem analysis of the current state of the ecological framework of Belgorod, a SWOT analysis of the natural resource potential of the territory and an analogue modelling were applied.Results. Regional peculiarities and problems of formation of the ecological framework of Belgorod are revealed. A SWOT analysis of the natural resource potential of the territory was carried out. Weaknesses and strengths, opportunities and threats were identified. The basic principles of the formation of the ecological framework of Belgorod are proposed: the principle of continuity of green areas, the principle of decentralization of green zones, the principle of optimality of anthropogenic load, the principle of water-saving design; the principle of integration of gully-girder complexes into the natural and ecological framework; the principle of regeneration of landscapes of riverine territories; the principle of reclamation of spent quarries and their integration into the ecological framework.Conclusions. The necessity of supplementing the materials “on the substantiation of the master plan for the development of the urban circle Belgorod until 2025” in terms of the development of an environmental framework scheme is justified. A conceptual spatial model if developed to strengthen the ecological framework of Belgorod. A number of recommendations are proposed to ensure comprehensive work to strengthen the ecological framework of the city.

large city, sustainable development, ecological framework, principles, natural framework