A Novel Approach for the Assessment of Cities through Ecosystem Integrity

To tackle urban heterogeneity and complexity, several indices have been proposed, commonly aiming to provide information for decision-makers. In this study, we propose a novel customizable procedure quantifying ecosystem integrity. Based on citywide approach, developed an easy-to-use index that contrasts physical biological variables of ecosystems with given reference system. The Urban Ecosystem Integrity Index (UEII) is the sum averages from make up its intensity urbanization components. We applied UEII in Mexican tropical city using land surface temperature, built cover, richness native plants birds. overall integrity city, having montane cloud, dry, temperate forests as systems, was low (−0.34 ± SD 0.32), showing that, beyond biodiverse greenspace network, built-up structure highly differs reference. showed be flexible easy-to-calculate tool evaluate cities, allowing comparisons between or among well sectors/regions within cities. If used properly, could become useful decision making resource allocation at level.