Mapping interactions between geology, subsurface resource exploitation and urban development in transforming cities using InSAR Persistent Scatterers: Two decades of change in Florence, Italy

A novel application of Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) reveals significant vertical and horizontal urban dynamics in Florence, Italy, over two decades. The study identified 12 macropatterns and 84 micropatterns of surface displacements, highlighting areas of new construction, land subsidence due to groundwater exploitation (up to 30–40 mm/yr), and interactions with underlying geology and slope instability. Notably, heritage assets along planned subway and tramway routes showed stable conditions, with minimal deformation. This baseline characterization offers critical insights for sustainable urban management and future infrastructure projects.

Pratesi, F., Tapete, D., Del Ventisette, C., & Moretti, S. (2016). Mapping interactions between geology, subsurface resource exploitation and urban development in transforming cities using InSAR Persistent Scatterers: Two decades of change in Florence, Italy. Applied Geography, 77, 20–37. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apgeog.2016.09.017