Evaluating Ecosystem Service Changes in a Frame of Transportation Development in Istanbul

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and growing transportation infrastructure in cities negatively affect ecosystems and their functions. Quantifying these effects is a prerequisite for integrating environmental considerations into all phases of transportation planning. However, in many developing or newly developed countries, research is lacking that helps to understand and manage the ecological impacts of transportation construction under local conditions. Presented research contributed to filling this gap by investigating the implications of growing transportation infrastructure on three ecosystem services: local climate regulation, erosion control, and photosynthesis potential. As a case study, we used spatial indicators to quantify changes in the supply of ecosystem services caused by the development of the 3(rd) Bosporus Bridge and its connecting highway in Istanbul, Turkiye. Our results indicate a substantial decrease in ecosystem services close to the transportation infrastructure, including a decrease in local climate regulation (- 5.4%), an increase in erosion (+ 9.4%), and a decline in photosynthesis potential or vegetation health (- 28%). Additionally, hotspots of ES supply change were detected. This study provides a blueprint for planning and impact mitigation studies.