Large-Scale Urban Protected Areas in urban and regional development: Exploring strengths and weaknesses through three German case studies

It is estimated that by 2030, forty percent of the strictly protected areas will be located within 50 km of urban areas. We review the literature on the history, origin, and development of Urban Protected Areas (UPAs), focusing on national parks, nature parks, and biosphere reserves. We review the scientific discourse and conduct qualitative guideline-based interviews in three selected case studies in Germany: the Saxon Switzerland National Park, the Biosphere Reserve Bliesgau, and the Barnim Nature Park. We conclude that UPAs are important for ecosystems, nature conservation, biodiversity, and human health. We believe the potential of UPAs, especially in terms of regional development has not been fully realized. Governance and communication between UPAs, cities and regions must be strengthened if UPAs are to be better used to raise awareness for nature conservation and provide recreational space.