Biodiversity and species richness in planned urban landscapes: a method for data extraction from development proposals in Sydney, Australia

Benefits of biodiversity and structural planting complexity within urban vegetation include the creation of habitat and increased climate resilience, as well as positive impacts on human health and wellbeing. Limited data exists on plant composition in urban environments, with a need for new methods to assist in the improvement of datasets and the creation of diverse landscapes. This paper analyses plant lists included with development proposals exhibited in the period 2016–2022 to determine species richness and taxonomic diversity, normalised to site area and compared to State Vegetation Type Map data. While the compiled dataset includes over 1200 species, there is minimal correlation with pre-clearing vegetation communities. This research provides methodological proof of concept that may be used to evaluate proposed plantings during development application processes. Outcomes demonstrate the potential for digital tools to help assess and advance biodiversity and planting policy to increase vegetative complexity in urban landscapes.