Urbanization in protected areas and beyond their boundaries: An analysis of National Parks in Italy for integrated management

The spread of unsustainable development models, driven by global trends and dynamics of urbanisation, has led to ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss. Protected Areas play a crucial role not only in nature conservation but also in enhancing territorial resilience. However, urbanisation trends and policies pose challenges to PAs, especially in Italy, where the interaction between PAs and urban areas is significant. This study analyses Italian National Parks and urbanisation patterns within and outside their boundaries. Results indicate low urbanisation within PAs but significant urban expansion in surrounding areas. This underscores the need for integrated territorial governance to ensure the effectiveness of conservation efforts and to address threats to ecological connectivity.