Just under 100,000 inhabitants live in the Bassa Pianura Friulana (Lower Friulian Plain), Italy, an area spanning a
complex system of artificial and natural infrastructures, located at the northernmost point of the Adriatic Sea and
bordered by a vast lagoon. During the summer season, the 130-kilometre coastline hosts over 3 million tourists.
At multiple scales, the hydrographic system faces increasing anthropogenic pressures and is hierarchically
structured, which may not align effectively with the efficient functioning of the territory. Consequently, the area
is persistently exposed to risks from unexpected climatic events, resulting in significant imbalances such as floods,
droughts, and storm surges. Artificial water management networks, however, do not fully mitigate the operational
challenges of the territory.
This article initiates a discussion on research efforts, exploring tools, projects, and potential solutions to enhance
the resilience and adaptability of artificial territories in response to transformations in both coastal and inland urban
areas. The research aims to identify and highlight the conflicts between human and natural spaces, drawing on
insights from Urban Political Ecology studies rather than a design-driven approach as often seen in landscape
urbanism.
