Gradient of anthropogenic load on park ecosystems of megalopolis

Abstract

Aim. The aim is to assess the intensity of the impact of recreation and vehicle emissions on the Kyiv park ecosystems. Methods. Used methods of ecology, phytoindications. Results. We analyzed the recreational load on 18 park ecosystems within the city of Kyiv. GIS modeling was performed and a gradient of the state ecosystems of Kyiv was built according to the integrated indicator of recreational impact and vehicle emissions. The created map-scheme according to the integrated indicator of the severity of the impact (W) reflects the ecological situation in the studied Kyiv park ecosystems and indicates their significant transformation in the conditions of the megalopolis. The tendency to decrease the number and intensity of manifestations of recreational exposure with increasing severity of exposure (W) is calculated. According to GIS modeling by W and taking into account the prevailing wind directions in the city of Kyiv, it was found that 50% of the studied parks are in critical danger, 30% – in a threatening condition, only the «Pushcha-Vodytsya» park is in a stable condition. The best condition of park ecosystems DShK park, «Peremoha» park; «Babyn Yar», «Nyvky» park, «Lysa Hora» tract, Holosiivskyi National Park. Conclusions. It is important to constantly monitor and preserve natural ecosystems and green infrastructure in large cities. This requires the timely adoption of balanced and correct management decisions both at the level of local authorities and within the state.Keywords: recreation, motor vehicle pollution, urban ecosystem, integrated assessment.