A knowledge-based system for selection of trees for urban environments

Abstract

Urbanization is the driving force for economic growth however it has adverse effects, principally on human health, livelihoods and the environment. Urban forestry is key in mitigating the environmental effects of urbanization however urban environments presents arboricultural challenges of limited root and canopy space, poor soil quality, deficiency or excess of water and light, heat, pollution, mechanical and chemical damage to trees. Research conducted within Nakuru Town established the different challenges caused by planting of inappropriate tree species and presents the development of a knowledge-based system that would assist in the selection of the appropriate tree species for the diverse urban environments. The system developed adopts a formalized approach to urban planting site assessment and recommends tree species based on their characteristics and suitability. Through the research it was evident that a better understanding of how urban ecosystems functions, how to take care of trees, where to strategically plant them and how to maintain them is the only way to maximize potential benefits of urban trees. The system was evaluated through selected test cases and the results were fairly accurate and promising when compared with the results of domain experts. Such a system would assist Governments, city-planners and conservationists to plan in advance for urbanization’s threats to nature and thus shape the growth of cities through incorporation of successful urban forests initiatives.