Rationale for a Synthesis
Detennine what we know with a reasonable level of confidence about how these patterns affect and maintain human and ecological function and well-being. What are the major uncertainties and data gaps? By identifying gaps in knowledge we can help set the agenda for research in urban ecology.
4. Provide insights into the relative importance of different linkages between urban development and ecological dynamics. What are the slow and fast variables that affect system dynamics? What are the major feedback mechanisms? What are the relative strengths of different mechanisms?
5. L a y o u t the plausible alternative future scenarios over multiple time scales (i.e., effects of climate change, technological progression, natural resource consumption patterns, etc.). .
6. Link scientific research to relevant policy questions regarding urban ecological problems in order to assist decision making. This will help us communicate the complexity of assessing development patterns and help shape smarter growth policies, changing popular ideas to reflect an evolutionary and adaptive perspective.