A Literature Review on the Concept of Productive Urban Landscape

Abstract

Cities encompass a vast network of human and technological interactions and potentials. Scholars from various disciplines have emphasized the need for urban landscapes to maintain a close relationship with the natural environment. However, rapid urbanization and population growth have disrupted this relationship, as the expansion of the built environment has often occurred at the expense of urban landscapes. As a result, landscapes are no longer viewed solely as aesthetic or recreational spaces but are increasingly expected to perform productive functions that contribute to urban sustainability. This research examines the concept of the productive urban landscape and traces its evolution as an approach for addressing contemporary urban challenges. It establishes a knowledge base on the concept by reviewing pioneering models and key studies that have explored its origins and development. Based on the literature, the study develops a theoretical understanding of productive urban landscapes and identifies their main objectives, components, characteristics, criteria, and implementation strategies. The findings indicate that productive urban landscapes can support sustainable productivity while responding to the needs of present and future generations. Among the various approaches identified in the literature, productive continuity emerged as a key strategy for achieving this concept.