Linear Infrastructure Networks with Ecological Solutions – showcasing the legacy of the LIFE-LINES project

Abstract

The need for reversing the negative impacts of Linear Infrastructure Networks on the environment is increasingly acknowledged as a key to achieving national and international biodiversity commitments. LIFE-LINES project (LIFE14 NAT/PT/001081) employed and essayed a large and diverse number of interventions to reconcile biodiversity conservation and the presence of roads and powerlines. This was achieved through actions that enhanced ecological connectivity by reducting wildlife road-kills and road-barrier effect, promoting autochthonous vegetation, and creating refuges and corridors in linear infrastructures related habitats. The project outcomes of these demonstrative and innovative solutions proved that fostering Green Infrastructures across existing Grey Infrastructures without jeopardizing their ecological and social roles is reachable. Beyond socio-ecological results, several tools were created to support appropriate management choices by stakeholders and decision-makers aimed for the sustainability of linear infrastructures, from the planning to the maintenance phase. These included solutions to wildlife safe crossing on road, guidance to improve road verge management, and development of a National Roadkill Database to monitor and report large-scale mortality trends. The proposed practical demonstration will consist of a showcase of the project main results using teasers and tutorials as audiovisual support, and distribution of printed information (e.g., flyers,Layman’s report). We will also engage participants to compete in a challenge about road design, testing the ability to comply with different social and ecological constraints. Prizes will be awarded to participants and the best proposal for road design.