Sustainable landscape planning for Cremona, Italy

Sustainable landscape planning at the provincial level is explained through the example of the province of Cremona, Italy. Six topics are addressed. F irst, the topic of why planning in Italy, in general, and Cremona, more spe cifically, is important will be addressed. Cremona province is located in n orthern Italy, where traditionally rural regions are facing expanding urban ization. Second, a background of Italian planning is provided. A 1990 law, in particular, emphasizes provincial-level planning. Third, the history and landscape of Cremona will be described. For most of its: history, Cremona has been dominated by agriculture, which is reflected in the landscape. Fou rth, the province of Cremona planning process will be summarized. The plann ing activity began in 1994 and continues to the present. Fifth, the design: of a sustainability index is explained. The sustainability index is used t o assess how land-use modifications might affect the environment. Finally, the key lessons from the process will be noted. The Cremona provincial plan applies concepts of sustainability to a changing landscape. (C) 2000 Elsev ier Science B.V. All rights reserved.