Public Perceptions of Urban Green Spaces: Convergences and Divergences

Abstract

In the context of rapid climate change, it is important to understand public perceptions of urban green spaces (UGSs), because green spaces have enormous potential as instruments for climate change adaptation and mitigation, and because the development of such spaces both requires and benefits from public support. This article attempts, through an extensive literature review, to understand convergences and divergences in perceptions of urban green spaces (UGSs) of city dwellers around the world and to identify gaps in the existing research. Additionally, the article explores research into the benefits associated with urban green spaces, including health (e.g., physical and mental), social (e.g., social networks and social relationships), economic (e.g., employment and income generation), and environmental (e.g., ecosystem services and biodiversity). This article further seeks to identify the extent to which urban residents have been found to perceive the roles UGSs can play in climate change adaptation and mitigation, and cultural exchange. Based on studies conducted in different countries over the past decade, this paper integrates environmental, social, cultural, and economic aspects of urban greening to provide insight into the similarities and differences in perceptions of urban green spaces and suggest approaches to building climate change resilient urban communities. This paper finds justification for: encouraging the use of integrated, multidisciplinary approaches, using innovative tools, for both the study and practical development of UGSs; conducting a greater number of studies of newer urban areas in developing countries; and considering the diverse disadvantages as well as the advantages of UGSs in order to support the continued development and expansion of this critical climate-friendly infrastructure. The more that residents' perceptions of and attitudes toward UGSs are incorporated into the design of such spaces, the more successful they will be at providing the myriad benefits they have the potential to offer.

Structural analysis modeling of participatory stakeholder management for green space improvement: evidence from Tehran Metropolis

“…Malik (2017) reported that participatory green space management policy in municipalities was beneficial to green space improvement. Atiqul Haq et al (2021) concluded that it was necessary to adopt an integrated approach to green space design, maintenance, monitoring, and evaluation in order to maximize green space benefits according to the environment and environmental sustainability. Out of all green space improvement variables, participatory management had the greatest effect on green space design.…”

“…Despite their lower profitability, urban green spaces bring aesthetic, environmental, recreational, social, and health benefits to people (Kruize et al, 2019). Responses to the needs of urban residents and green space visitors are affected by urban planning and management models (Atiqul Haq et al, 2021).…”

Can Campus Green Spaces Be Restorative? A Case Study from Tanzania

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“…Urban green spaces are an essential component of urban ecosystems. Urban green spaces not only offer aesthetic and comfortable recreational facilities but also render multifaceted ecological functions such as climate regulation, air purification, soil conservation, and enhancement of biodiversity [1][2][3][4]. Accurate assessment and prediction of the environmental conditions for plant growth in green spaces is crucial for ensuring their health and sustainability.…”