Strategic Spatial Planning of Territorial Communities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

Problem Statement. Strategic spatial planning in Ukraine focuses mainly on economic aspects and takes less into account the environmental consequences of planned activities, which may be threatening to natural and cultural heritage. This is explained, in particular, by the insufficient number of trained specialists for planning sustainable spatial development. It is especially important to integrate scientific natural research into educational programs for training specialists in spatial planning, which include the study of geodiversity, the evolution of natural and cultural landscapes, methods of creating nature conservation areas, the formation of eco-networks, as well as the introduction of innovative technologies in land use and various branches of the national economy. Such research is the basis for developing community strategy and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), effective territorial management and successful spatial planning practices.

The purpose of the article is to consider strategic spatial planning as a modern interdisciplinary field that integrating social, economic, and ecological aspects of sustainable spatial development.

Research methodology proposes an interdisciplinary approach to strategic planning, which takes into account the geodiversity of the territory, the evolution of natural and cultural landscapes, as well as natural and anthropogenic risks. This approach makes it possible to predict optimal scenarios of spatial development, adapted to specific geographical conditions. Special attention is paid to the training of highly qualified specialists at the bachelor's and master's levels, emphasizing their important role in the development of strategic plans, which are the basis of comprehensive plans for the spatial development of territorial communities.

The results. The article presents scientific approaches to strategic planning based on an interdisciplinary study of territories. This study highlights the international experience of strategic planning and similar successful practices in Ukraine territorial communities.

Scientific novelty. The study provides a theoretical basis for the mandatory integration of natural science research into strategic spatial planning. This includes data on geodiversity, natural settings and resources, cultural and natural landscapes, nature reserves and ecological networks. The combination of this information with the data of the land and urban cadasters creates a comprehensive basis for determining the optimal scenarios of spatial development.

Practical significance. The results of this study can be applied to improve the methodology of strategic spatial planning at the local level. Generalized international experience is a valuable guide for setting long-term spatial development goals and implementing specific measures to achieve them. Practical aspects of spatial planning, such as innovative land use systems, implementation of renewable energy sources, inclusive residential and public spaces, protection and preservation of natural and cultural heritage, are illustrated by specific examples discussed in the article. This study is useful for professionals in spatial planning and community management, as well as for researchers, teachers, and students who focus on integrating natural science research into the practice of spatial development.