Greenways Network for the Metropolitan Area of Lisbon

This paper presents a synthesis of research focused on a territory of about 3000 km2 covering the recent Metropolitan Area of Lisbon. The research has no binding authority. It is intended tomphasize the importance of .perrnanent, continuous research that is conducted in parallel with the respective govemmental planning agencies, and also for the need to have prospective visions that may become long terrn strategic goals and policies. We also want to emphasize that inforrnation technologies are essential tools to support a multipurpose inforrnation system. The paper describes some economic and demographic characteristics, natural and cultural values and the tendencies of some of lhe important variables. We advance some very basic ideas for a greeenways network of protected area forming a mosaic of large and small nodes linked with corridors, and managed for multi purposes.