Kokonaismittakaava

Kokonaismittakaava, meaning "total scale" in Finnish, refers to a concept in urban planning and land use that considers the overall development potential and capacity of an area rather than focusing solely on individual building permits or specific land use designations. It emphasizes a holistic approach to understanding how a given region can accommodate growth, infrastructure, and various human activities in a sustainable and integrated manner.

This approach moves beyond piecemeal decision-making by evaluating the cumulative impact of different land uses, population densities, and infrastructure requirements. It seeks to ensure that development is not only permitted but also well-supported by existing or planned resources such as transportation networks, utilities, and public services. Kokonaismittakaava involves assessing the carrying capacity of an area and determining the optimal balance between development and environmental, social, and economic considerations.

The implementation of kokonaismittakaava often involves comprehensive master plans, strategic development frameworks, and integrated environmental impact assessments. The goal is to create cohesive and resilient urban or regional environments that can adapt to future needs and challenges. It is a forward-looking perspective that aims to guide development in a way that maximizes long-term benefits for both the community and the environment. This contrasts with more traditional methods that might focus on zoning regulations for individual parcels of land without a broader consideration of the cumulative effects.