Application of ecological landscape design in sustainable development practice: a systematic review of the literature

Purpose This study aims to explore the contribution of ecological landscape design to sustainable development, focusing on how ecological principles and design strategies can enhance environmental balance, urban resilience and long-term sustainability. Special attention is given to the intersection with urban education, highlighting its role in fostering environmental literacy and civic engagement. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review was conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2024 were identified through academic databases such as Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Studies were selected based on their relevance to ecological landscape design, sustainable development goals (SDGs) and urban educational practices. The review aimed to synthesize the current state of knowledge and identify key trends, challenges and opportunities in this interdisciplinary field. Findings The review reveals that ecological landscape design plays a crucial role in optimizing natural resource use, enhancing biodiversity and improving the livability of urban spaces. Technological innovations, including geographic information systems and remote sensing, support informed planning, decision-making and environmental monitoring. Furthermore, integrating ecological landscapes into urban education is shown to promote environmental literacy and strengthen civic engagement, reinforcing long-term sustainability outcomes and contributing to more resilient, sustainable urban environments. Originality/value This paper offers a comprehensive synthesis of ecological landscape design within the context of sustainable development and introduces urban education as a vital yet underexplored element. It highlights interdisciplinary strategies that bridge environmental planning, technology and educational engagement to support SDG implementation, advancing a holistic approach to sustainable urban development.