On the Experience of Developing the "Urban Development Atlas of Russia" and the Modern Use of its Results

Abstract

In 1991-1994, on the instructions of the Ministry of Construction of Russia, the Institute of Geobiosphere Studies of the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences developed the Urban Development Atlas of Russia (Scale 1:8 000 000). The article assesses the work performed in terms of scientific significance and the possibility of modern use. The purpose of developing the Atlas as a collection of maps of a single scale, united by a common approach - focus on sustainable development, was to summarize the most up-to-date information on the territory of Russia from the perspective of resettlement and urban planning, and the tasks were to systematize, analyze and forecast it. The Atlas was intended to become a symbol of the scientific prestige of the industry, intended for widespread use in the design, management, and training of specialists in urban planning specialties.

The work was carried out at the beginning of the "perestroika", during the period of maximum transparency of information, intensive intersectoral cooperation of ministries, departments, specialists of various fields of science interested in a comprehensive assessment of the country's territories, its regions, and cities. This was a prerequisite for the novelty and uniqueness of the results.

Leading experts in the field of urban planning, geography, ecology, geology, economics, and other scientific disciplines took part in the work on the "Urban Planning Atlas of Russia". At the initial stage, a methodology, structure, content of the atlas and several thematic maps were developed (50 were supposed). By the end of 1993, 15 maps had been developed, with a trial run published two devoted to the most pressing problems of that time ("Radiation Situation in Russia" and "Transport of Russia. Basic Communications"). Despite the excellent reviews of specialists and organizations, during the crisis in 1994 work was suspended and subsequently did not resume.

Today, when, in accordance with the "May" Decrees of the President of the Russian Federation, V. Putin, the time has come for active actions in the field of strategic planning of spatial development of Russia, scientific substantiation and practical solution of urgent problems of resettlement and urban development, it is advisable to use the achievements of the Urban Development Atlas. The Atlas creation methodology is a prototype of the formation of future industry information systems using electronic mapping and urban cadaster methods.

A significant part of the developed maps has not lost its relevance or requirelittle updating, after which they can become an important part of the analytical base of spatial development.