Evaluating the Landscape and Ecological Aspects of Urban Planning in Byblos: A Multi-Faceted Approach to Assessing Urban Forests

A multi-faceted analysis of Byblos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reveals critical insights into its urban and peri-urban forests (UPFs), threatened by rapid urbanization. The study found that 28% of the city's canopy cover is concentrated in the northeastern region, with native tree species comprising 30% of the total. Significant variations in tree diversity were observed across different land-use types, with residential streets exhibiting the highest Shannon diversity index (H = 1.35), followed by the city center (H = 1.02) and vehicular areas (H = 0.64). A normal J-shaped distribution of tree diameters was consistent across all street types, while a silhouette perceptual test highlighted a preference for densely spreading canopies. Residential trees also showed greater structural diversity and varied blossoming seasons. This pioneering study on Byblos' urban forestry provides actionable recommendations for sustainable management and planning, ensuring the preservation of its ecological and visual value.

Hobeika, M., Dawalibi, V., Kallas, G., & Russo, A. (2024). Evaluating the Landscape and Ecological Aspects of Urban Planning in Byblos: A Multi-Faceted Approach to Assessing Urban Forests. Land, 13(4), 464. https://doi.org/10.3390/land13040464