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Andersson E, McPhearson T, Pickett STA. From urban ecology to urban enquiry: How to build cumulative and context-sensitive understandings. AMBIO 2024; 53:813-825. [PMID: 38643344 PMCID: PMC11058139 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-023-01959-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
This paper positions urban ecology as increasingly conversant with multiple perspectives and methods for understanding the functions and qualities of diverse cities and urban situations. Despite progress in the field, we need clear pathways for positioning, connecting and synthesising specific knowledge and to make it speak to more systemic questions about cities and the life within them. These pathways need to be able to make use of diverse sources of information to better account for the diverse relations between people, other species and the ecological, social, cultural, economic, technical and increasingly digital structures that they are embedded in. Grounded in a description of the systemic knowledge needed, we propose five complementary and often connected approaches for building cumulative systemic understandings, and a framework for connecting and combining different methods and evidence. The approaches and the framework help position urban ecology and other fields of study as entry points to further advance interdisciplinary synthesis and open up new fields of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Andersson
- Ecosystems and Environment Research Programme, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 1, P.O. Box 65, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
- Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, Albanovägen 28, 10691, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
| | - Timon McPhearson
- Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, Albanovägen 28, 10691, Stockholm, Sweden
- Urban Systems Lab, The New School, 79 Fifth Avenue, 16th Fl., New York, NY, 10003, USA
- Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Box AB, Millbrook, NY, 12545, USA
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2
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Oduro JK. The well-being equation: How inner fulfilment drives the impact of older persons on the Ghanaian society. Int J Older People Nurs 2024; 19:e12614. [PMID: 38711209 DOI: 10.1111/opn.12614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding and managing the complex processes of ageing is a critical function of gerontological nursing, especially when it comes to older people's well-being and their contributions to society. Globally, older persons contribute in many ways to families and communities. However, the relationship between older person's overall well-being and their propensity to contribute to society remains an important gap in research. OBJECTIVE The study examined the association between well-being and the impact of older persons on Ghanaian society. METHODS A secondary analysis of longitudinal survey data of the 2014/15 Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE Wave 2) conducted by the World Health Organization was used. The multilevel logistic regression technique was used to examine four dimensions of well-being and their associations with high social contribution among older persons. The output was reported as odds ratios (OR). RESULTS The results show that older persons who had high physical and psychological well-being were more likely to contribute to society (OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 0.93, 1.68), (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.32, 2.33). However, those with high levels of emotional and spiritual well-being were less likely to make social contributions (OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.49, 0.88), (OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.66, 1.18). CONCLUSION This study shows a positive association between well-being and older persons' societal impact. Good mental and physical health encourage societal involvement among older persons, while high emotional and spiritual well-being may lead to less societal contribution. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE These findings are important for nursing policies promoting social contribution and well-being among older persons 60 years and over in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Kojo Oduro
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Central Region, Ghana
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Xu Z, Zhao S. Fine-grained urban blue-green-gray landscape dataset for 36 Chinese cities based on deep learning network. Sci Data 2024; 11:266. [PMID: 38438364 PMCID: PMC10912193 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-023-02844-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Detailed and accurate urban landscape mapping, especially for urban blue-green-gray (UBGG) continuum, is the fundamental first step to understanding human-nature coupled urban systems. Nevertheless, the intricate spatial heterogeneity of urban landscapes within cities and across urban agglomerations presents challenges for large-scale and fine-grained mapping. In this study, we generated a 3 m high-resolution UBGG landscape dataset (UBGG-3m) for 36 Chinese metropolises using a transferable multi-scale high-resolution convolutional neural network and 336 Planet images. To train the network for generalization, we also created a large-volume UBGG landscape sample dataset (UBGGset) covering 2,272 km2 of urban landscape samples at 3 m resolution. The classification results for five cities across diverse geographic regions substantiate the superior accuracy of UBGG-3m in both visual interpretation and quantitative evaluation (with an overall accuracy of 91.2% and FWIoU of 83.9%). Comparative analyses with existing datasets underscore the UBGG-3m's great capability to depict urban landscape heterogeneity, providing a wealth of new data and valuable insights into the complex and dynamic urban environments in Chinese metropolises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyu Xu
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Shuqing Zhao
- College of Ecology and the Environment, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China.
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Huang L, Lu Y, Wang J. Linking G2SFCA method and circuit theory to promote spatial equity and landscape connectivity in urban ecological infrastructure. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 348:119208. [PMID: 37827084 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Protecting and constructing urban ecological infrastructure (UEI) is an important spatial means of improving the quality of life of urban residents, enhancing the benefits of the urban environment, and improving urban habitats. Landscape connectivity is the basis for UEI to play an ecological role. Spatial equity is an important goal for UEI to enhance urban resident happiness and sense of access and achieve environmental justice. Taking Yantai city as an example, this study analyzed the UEI morphological spatial pattern based on morphological spatial pattern analysis and calculated the spatial accessibility of UEI based on the gravity -based two-step-floating catchment area (G2SFCA) method. In addition, the study proposed the concept of accessible UEI and reflected the spatial differences in the equity of accessible UEI in urban residential areas through equity modeling that was oriented to connectivity enhancement and equity improvement. Moreover, the study integrated the location-allocation model and circuit theory to optimize the spatial layout of the existing UEI and construct an urban ecological corridor that considered landscape connectivity and leisure and recreational convenience. The results of this study showed that the proportion of bridge and island areas with connecting functions in the existing UEI in Yantai was only 10%, and they had not yet formed a complete network structure; hence, connectivity improvements were needed. In addition, the equity of accessible UEI in the residential areas of Yantai was generally good, and more than two-thirds of residents had sufficient access to UEI. However, approximately 32.7% of the residents in the four old city areas lacked a UEI distribution within their effective commuting time. Moreover, UEI layout optimization could improve the equity of accessible UEI in residential areas; however, the method of adding a new UEI was not applicable to areas with high concentrations of urban populations and stable urban spatial layouts. Furthermore, urban ecological corridors could effectively improve the connectivity and equity of UEI; however, 70% relied on existing road systems and needed to enhance their ecological attributes. The UEI equity of residential areas was highly correlated with house prices, indicating an obvious spatial injustice in the UEI layout in Yantai. Planners and governments should promote urban environmental justice through effective conservation and construction measures by incorporating established ecological and artificial infrastructures into UEI planning to achieve equitable access to UEI services for urban residents. This study provides a spatial reference and methodological support to enhance the equity and connectivity of UEI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longyang Huang
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China.
| | - Yu Lu
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Jing Wang
- College of Water Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
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Zhang X, Zhou Y, Long L, Hu P, Huang M, Chen Y, Chen X. Prediction of the spatiotemporal evolution of vegetation cover in the Huainan mining area and quantitative analysis of driving factors. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:776. [PMID: 37256369 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11385-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The prediction of the spatiotemporal dynamic evolution of vegetation cover in the Huainan mining area and the quantitative evaluation of its driving factors are of great significance for protecting and restoring the environment in this area. This study uses the Landsat 5 TM and Landsat 8 OLI time-series data to estimate the vegetation cover and uses the transition matrix to analyze the spatiotemporal transfer of vegetation cover from 1989 to 2004, 2004 to 2021, and 2021 to 2030. In addition, a structural equation model (SEM) was established in this study to assess the driving factors of vegetation cover. The quantitative analysis and the cellular automata (CA)-Markov model were performed to predict the future vegetation cover in the Huainan mining area. The results are as follows: (1) In different periods, the vegetation cover types were mainly high cover types transferred to other vegetation cover types; (2) human activities are the key factors affecting the vegetation growth, while topographical factor is the most influential factor promoting the vegetation growth; (3) highly consistent CA-Markov and multi-criteria evaluation (MCE) predicted results of vegetation cover in 2030 compared to that in 2021. The proportion of bare soil and low cover types had increased significantly, mainly concentrated in the internal area of the mines. The prediction of the spatiotemporal evolution of vegetation cover in the Huainan mining area and the quantitative change in driving factors are of significant importance for the restoration of the environment in mining areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuyang Zhang
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Yuzhi Zhou
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Linli Long
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Pian Hu
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Meiqin Huang
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Yongchun Chen
- Ping'an Coal Mining Engineering Technology Research Institute Co., Ltd, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaoyang Chen
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Engineering Laboratory for Comprehensive Utilization of Water and Soil Resources & Ecological Protection in Mining Area With High Groundwater Level, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China.
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McCartan C, Davidson G, Bradley L, Greer K, Knifton L, Mulholland A, Webb P, White C. 'Lifts your spirits, lifts your mind': A co-produced mixed-methods exploration of the benefits of green and blue spaces for mental wellbeing. Health Expect 2023. [PMID: 37128668 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mental health problems are a considerable public health issue and spending time in nature has been promoted as a way to access a range of psychological benefits leading to the development of nature-based interventions for people with severe and enduring mental health problems. Less, however, is understood about the potential benefits and efficacy of day-to-day routine access to outdoor green and blue spaces for mental health service users. METHODS Using a mixed-methods design between April and October 2021, we explored the benefits and barriers to spending time outdoors with a purposive sample of mental health service users (N = 11) using qualitative interviews and an online general population survey (N = 1791). Qualitative evidence highlighted the restorative benefits of nature and identified a number of barriers associated with fears around personal safety, social anxiety, fatigue and lack of motivation. COVID-19 had also restricted access to green and blue spaces. Having social contact and support encouraged people to spend time outdoors. In the quantitative survey, self-report and standardised measures (the Patient Health Questionnaire and the Warwick-Edinburgh Wellbeing Scale) were used to assess past and current mental wellbeing. FINDINGS Statistically significant differences were found between wellbeing and the use of green and blue spaces. Those with mental health problems spent time outdoors because they: felt guilty; wanted to reduce their anxiety; or rely on someone for encouragement. Those without mental health problems endorsed more positively framed reasons including relaxation, improving physical health or getting exercise. Barriers for people with mental health problems involved safety concerns, feeling anxious and having a poor self-image. These findings give insight into motivations for an outdoor activity to help inform the design of public mental health interventions. CONCLUSION Further work is required to improve access and safety to promote the benefits of green and blue spaces for everyone. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION The research team included expert experienced researchers with a mental health service provider (Praxis Care) and they were involved in the development of the research idea, funding application, design, data collection, analysis, writing up and dissemination activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire McCartan
- Regional Trauma Network, IMPACT Research Centre, Northern Health and Social Care Trust, Antrim, UK
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Gavin Davidson
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Zhang X, Zhou Y, Long L, Hu P, Huang M, Xie W, Chen Y, Chen X. Simulation of land use trends and assessment of scale effects on ecosystem service values in the Huaihe River basin, China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:58630-58653. [PMID: 36977884 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26238-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Land use demand change in the Huaihe River basin (HRB) and ecosystem service values (ESVs) in watersheds are important for the sustainable development and use of land resources. This paper takes the HRB as the research object, and using remote sensing images of land use as the data source adopts the comprehensive evaluation analysis method of ESVs based on equivalent factors and sensitivity analysis of the performance characteristics of ESV changes of different land use types. The PLUS model is used to predict spatiotemporal land use change characteristics to 2030 combining inertial development, ecological development, and cultivated land development. The spatial distribution and aggregation of ESVs at each scale were also explored by analyzing ESVs at municipal, county, and grid scales. Considering also hotspots, the contribution of land use conversion to ESVs was quantified. The results showed that (1) from 2000 to 2020, cultivated land decreased sharply to 28,344.6875 km2, while construction land increased sharply to 26,914.563 km2, and the change of other land types was small. (2) The ESVs in the HRB were 222,019 × 1012 CNY in 2000, 235,015 × 1012 CNY in 2005, 234,419 × 1012 CNY in 2010, 229,885 × 1012 CNY in 2015, and 224,759 × 1012 CNY in 2020, with an overall fluctuation, first increasing and then decreasing. (3) The ESVs were 219,977 × 1012 CNY, 218,098 × 1012 CNY, 219,757 × 1012 CNY, and 213,985 × 1012 CNY under the four simulation scenarios of inertial development, ecological development, cultivated land development, and urban development, respectively. At different scales, the high-value areas decreased, and the low-value areas increased. (4) The hot and cold spots of ESV values were relatively clustered, with the former mainly clustered in the southeast region and the latter mainly clustered in the northwest region. The sensitivity of ecological value was lower than 1, while the ESV was inelastic to the ecological coefficient, and the results were plausible. The mutual conversion of cultivated land to water contributed the most to ESVs. Based on the multi-scenario simulation of land use in the HRB by the PLUS model, we identified the spatial distribution characteristics of ESVs at different scales, which can provide a scientific basis and multiple perspectives for the optimization of land use structure and socio-economic development decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuyang Zhang
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Yuzhi Zhou
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Linli Long
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Pian Hu
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Meiqin Huang
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Wen Xie
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Yongchun Chen
- Ping'an Coal Mining Engineering Technology Research Institute Co., Ltd, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaoyang Chen
- School of Earth and Environment, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Engineering Laboratory for Comprehensive Utilization of Water and Soil Resources & Ecological Protection in Mining Area With High Groundwater Level, Huainan, 232001, Anhui, China.
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Wellmann T, Andersson E, Knapp S, Lausch A, Palliwoda J, Priess J, Scheuer S, Haase D. Reinforcing nature-based solutions through tools providing social-ecological-technological integration. AMBIO 2023; 52:489-507. [PMID: 36287383 PMCID: PMC9849649 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-022-01801-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
While held to be a means for climate change adaptation and mitigation, nature-based solutions (NbS) themselves are vulnerable to climate change. To find ways of compensating for this vulnerability we combine a focused literature review on how information technology has been used to strengthen positive social-ecological-technological feedback, with the development of a prototype decision-support tool. Guided by the literature review, the tool integrates recent advances in using globally available remote sensing data to elicit information on functional diversity and ecosystem service provisioning with information on human service demand and population vulnerability. When combined, these variables can inform climate change adaptation strategies grounded in local social-ecological realities. This type of integrated monitoring and packaging information to be actionable have potential to support NbS management and local knowledge building for context-tailored solutions to societal challenges in urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilo Wellmann
- Landscape Ecology Lab, Geography Department, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Computational Landscape Ecology, UFZ – Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Erik Andersson
- Ecosystems and Environment Research Programme, University of Helsinki, PB 65 (Viikinkaari 1), 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Stockholm Resilienc Centre, Stockholm University, Albanovägen 28, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
- Unit for Environmental Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520 South Africa
| | - Sonja Knapp
- Department of Community Ecology, UFZ – Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Theodor-Lieser-Str. 4, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Ecology, Ecosystem Science/Plant Ecology, Technische Universität Berlin, 12165 Berlin, Germany
| | - Angela Lausch
- Landscape Ecology Lab, Geography Department, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Computational Landscape Ecology, UFZ – Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Julia Palliwoda
- Department of Computational Landscape Ecology, UFZ – Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jörg Priess
- Department of Computational Landscape Ecology, UFZ – Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sebastian Scheuer
- Landscape Ecology Lab, Geography Department, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany
| | - Dagmar Haase
- Landscape Ecology Lab, Geography Department, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Computational Landscape Ecology, UFZ – Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
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Law A, Carrasco LR, Richards DR, Shaikh SFEA, Tan CLY, Nghiem LTP. Leave no one behind: A case of ecosystem service supply equity in Singapore. AMBIO 2022; 51:2118-2136. [PMID: 35507247 PMCID: PMC9378807 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-022-01735-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Urban populations benefit greatly from the ecosystem services provided by urban green and blue spaces. While the equity of provision of and access to urban green and blue spaces has been widely explored, research on equity of ecosystem service provision is relatively scant. Using household level data, our study aims to assess the supply equity of five regulatory ecosystem services in Singapore. We employed linear mixed-effects models and Hot Spot Analysis to analyze their distributional equity across individual households of various demographic characteristics (horizontal inequality), and calculated Gini coefficient for the distribution of PM10 removal service among households categorised into demographic subgroups (vertical inequality). Our results show little evidence of inequitable ecosystem service provision among Singapore's diverse socio-demographic groups. This can be attributed to the early integration of environmental management strategies and meticulous socio-economic desegregation efforts into urban development plans, which maximised provision and maintenance of urban green spaces to all residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Law
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, 117543, Singapore.
- Natural Capital Singapore, Singapore-ETH Centre, ETH Zürich, Singapore, 138602, Singapore.
- Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise, Singapore, 138602, Singapore.
| | - L Roman Carrasco
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
- Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise, Singapore, 138602, Singapore
| | - Daniel R Richards
- Natural Capital Singapore, Singapore-ETH Centre, ETH Zürich, Singapore, 138602, Singapore
- Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise, Singapore, 138602, Singapore
| | - Shaikh Fairul Edros Ahmad Shaikh
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
- Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise, Singapore, 138602, Singapore
| | - Claudia L Y Tan
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
- Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise, Singapore, 138602, Singapore
| | - Le Thi Phuong Nghiem
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
- Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise, Singapore, 138602, Singapore
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Gubić I, Wolff M. Use and design of public green spaces in Serbian cities during the COVID-19 pandemic. HABITAT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 128:102651. [PMID: 36061218 PMCID: PMC9420699 DOI: 10.1016/j.habitatint.2022.102651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Since December 2019, the global community has been challenged by managing the COVID-19 health crisis. Some governments have restricted the use of public green spaces (PGS), as part of measures for limiting the spread of the virus. Although many scholars studied the changing perception of using PGS during the pandemic, the extent to which the planning and design of new PGS recognize new realities and lessons learned from the ongoing pandemic including requirements for social distancing is less illuminated. Against this background, this article seeks to assess the intersection between the institutional responsibility in planning, designing and managing PSG, and the corresponding perception by PGS users in the two Serbian cities Belgrade and Novi Sad during the ongoing pandemic. Therefore, the paper surveyed 400 respondents about their perception of introduced measures and physical settings of PGS including their specific suggestions concerning which features, if included, would help them remain vigilant during a pandemic. The findings suggest that people have very clear and diverse ideas about the planning, design and management of PGS during a health crisis adapted to their individual needs but also beneficial to the whole local community. In reviewing public green space design competition calls and results published from 2019 to 2021, this study finds that the global lessons learned about the use of public green spaces during the pandemic were not considered by local governments and professionals in Serbia when planning and designing them. In addition, residents are less likely to request changing ways of implementing, designing or managing PGS from their local government. These two aspects are striking in successfully shaping and managing PGS as a crucial resource in cities and communities bouncing back after the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilija Gubić
- University of Belgrade - Faculty of Architecture, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Manuel Wolff
- Department of Geography, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Fang Z, Ding T, Chen J, Xue S, Zhou Q, Wang Y, Wang Y, Huang Z, Yang S. Impacts of land use/land cover changes on ecosystem services in ecologically fragile regions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 831:154967. [PMID: 35367552 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
High-density human activities have rapidly changed the pattern of urban land use/land cover (LULC), affecting the supply of urban ecosystem services (ESs). This poses a challenge to the balance of urban development and ecological protection, which may be more serious in ecologically fragile regions. This study identified key LULC change (LULCC) impacts on ESs in Ordos, an ecologically fragile region in Northwest China. The urbanization process of Ordos will continue in 2030 under the business-as-usual scenario due to its strategic positioning in the National Energy Base of China. The future LULC simulation results showed that developed land in eastern Ordos will continue to expand in 2030, and more forest and grassland will appear in western Ordos as a result of ecological restoration. The results of the InVEST model in calculating four important ESs showed that the ES supply in the densely populated areas (eastern Ordos) has declined, and more attention must be given to natural vegetation protection in the urbanization process. Although carbon storage in the western region has increased due to afforestation, this also reduces the water yield supply, which may exacerbate the water shortage in Ordos. Supported by this framework, more sustainable urban land use management can be undertaken to balance the conflict between ecological protection and urbanization. This will contribute to regional ecological health and sustainable urban development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Fang
- Research Institute of Management Science, Business School, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Tonghui Ding
- Research Institute of Management Science, Business School, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China.
| | - Junyu Chen
- School of Business, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China; College of Management and Economics, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Shi Xue
- Research Institute of Management Science, Business School, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Qin Zhou
- Business School, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Yingdi Wang
- The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huaian 223300, China
| | - Yixin Wang
- Research Institute of Management Science, Business School, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Zhongde Huang
- Center for Integrative Conservation, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Menglun, Mengla, Yunnan 666303, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shiliang Yang
- Research Institute of Management Science, Business School, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
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12
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Gender and sex differences in urban greenness' mental health benefits: A systematic review. Health Place 2022; 76:102864. [PMID: 35853366 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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13
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Komyakova V, Jaffrés JBD, Strain EMA, Cullen-Knox C, Fudge M, Langhamer O, Bender A, Yaakub SM, Wilson E, Allan BJM, Sella I, Haward M. Conceptualisation of multiple impacts interacting in the marine environment using marine infrastructure as an example. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 830:154748. [PMID: 35337877 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The human population is increasingly reliant on the marine environment for food, trade, tourism, transport, communication and other vital ecosystem services. These services require extensive marine infrastructure, all of which have direct or indirect ecological impacts on marine environments. The rise in global marine infrastructure has led to light, noise and chemical pollution, as well as facilitation of biological invasions. As a result, marine systems and associated species are under increased pressure from habitat loss and degradation, formation of ecological traps and increased mortality, all of which can lead to reduced resilience and consequently increased invasive species establishment. Whereas the cumulative bearings of collective human impacts on marine populations have previously been demonstrated, the multiple impacts associated with marine infrastructure have not been well explored. Here, building on ecological literature, we explore the impacts that are associated with marine infrastructure, conceptualising the notion of correlative, interactive and cumulative effects of anthropogenic activities on the marine environment. By reviewing the range of mitigation approaches that are currently available, we consider the role that eco-engineering, marine spatial planning and agent-based modelling plays in complementing the design and placement of marine structures to incorporate the existing connectivity pathways, ecological principles and complexity of the environment. Because the effect of human-induced, rapid environmental change is predicted to increase in response to the growth of the human population, this study demonstrates that the development and implementation of legislative framework, innovative technologies and nature-informed solutions are vital, preventative measures to mitigate the multiple impacts associated with marine infrastructure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeriya Komyakova
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia; Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7053, Australia.
| | - Jasmine B D Jaffrés
- C&R Consulting, Townsville, Australia; College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Elisabeth M A Strain
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia; Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7053, Australia
| | - Coco Cullen-Knox
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7053, Australia
| | - Maree Fudge
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia; Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7053, Australia; College of Business and Economics, University of Tasmania, Australia
| | - Olivia Langhamer
- Division of Electricity, Department of Electrical Engineering, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Anke Bender
- Division of Electricity, Department of Electrical Engineering, Uppsala University, Sweden
| | - Siti M Yaakub
- Sustainability & Climate Solutions Department, DHI Water & Environment (S), Singapore
| | - Eloise Wilson
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia; Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7053, Australia
| | - Bridie J M Allan
- Department of Marine Science, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
| | | | - Marcus Haward
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia; Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7053, Australia; Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre, PO Box 897, Launceston, Tasmania 7250, Australia
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14
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Designing Urban Green Infrastructures Using Open-Source Data—An Example in Çiğli, Izmir (Turkey). URBAN SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/urbansci6030042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The city of Izmir (Turkey) has experienced one of the most rapid and fastest urbanization processes in the last thirty years; more than 33 thousand hectares of agricultural and seminatural land have been transformed into urban areas, leading to a drastic reduction of biodiversity and hard deployments of the ecosystem service supply. In this perspective, the potential definition of methodologies to design multifunctional green infrastructures is extremely important to challenge the effects of climate change. The aim of this study is to propose an easy and replicable methodology to design a Green Infrastructure at the neighbourhood level in one of the most important districts of Izmir: Çiğli. To this end, we combined historical land-use change analysis (based on Urban Atlas, Copernicus Land Monitoring Service) with environmental and ecosystem mapping in a Geographic Information System environment (ESRI ArcMap 10.8.1) while creating a composite layer based on unweighted overlays of Imperviousness, Tree Cover Density, and Habitat Quality. Results were used to design the Green Infrastructure of Çiğli and suggest context-based strategies for urban adaptation, including Nature-Based Solutions for core, edge, and urban links.
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15
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Principles of Designing Water Elements in Urban Public Spaces. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14116877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
When designing public spaces in large cities, a number of functional, communication, compositional, infrastructural, environmental and compositional factors should be taken into account, most of which relate to water elements. The appropriate location and form of water elements significantly affect the attractiveness and strengthening of the identity of places in cities. Fountains, artificial and natural urbanized watercourses, artistic installations and sculptures, as well as nature-based solutions that utilize water designed in public spaces significantly increase the social and aesthetic value of public spaces. The main aim of the presented research is to present a spectrum of solutions for water elements in public spaces of cities. The summary part describes guidelines and recommendations regarding the principles of designing the locations of fountains, watercourses and artistic objects that utilize water in public spaces in cities.
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16
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Human-Nature Interactions during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic in Moscow, Russia: Exploring the Role of Contact with Nature and Main Lessons from the City Responses. LAND 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/land11060822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Urban green spaces (UGS) as essential elements of the urban environment provide multiple ecosystem services including benefits for physical and mental health. Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions have influenced human relationships with nature. Based on empirical research, this article explores the pathways and implications of human-nature interactions during and after COVID-19 and how human health and well-being could be supported by contact with nature. The article discusses the reasons that attract people to visit UGS (value of UGS, their perceptions, ways of contact with urban nature, etc.). It also analyses the effects of social isolation on the usage and perception of UGS during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The research revealed current needs for UGS and their role in adaptation of urban development and greening strategy. For this purpose, an online questionnaire survey among residents of Moscow was conducted in April–July of 2020 when restrictive measures were imposed in the city in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, non-participatory observations and photo documentation were used to supplement the data on UGS visitation and use. The GIS mapping method was applied to analyze the UGS provision (availability and accessibility of UGS). Moreover, expert interviews were conducted aiming to explore the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the urban fabric and life of the citizens. The aim was to reveal the main tendencies that can be used in the adaptation of urban development plans, especially regarding UGS and human-nature interactions. The results show that citizens (both survey respondents and experts) highly value urban nature as a tool for coping with COVID-19 challenges. They underlined a need for accessible UGS, most notably for breathing fresh air, reducing stress, relaxing, and observing and enjoying nature. The survey also revealed the particular health effects resulting from the reduction of UGS visitations due to COVID-19 restrictions. Several changes in human-nature interactions were also observed: many respondents especially missed spending time outdoors and meeting other people. That highlights the fact that while UGS normally provides places for social integration and socializing, during the COVID-19 isolation UGS were especially valued in regard to physical health and well-being (self-recovery). Both respondents and experts expressed their opinions regarding the future development of UGS network and how the UGS’s structure and design should be adapted to the current challenges. The claimed interests/preferences included the need for providing all residents equal access to UGS in a time of pandemics and post pandemics. A set of limitations and directions for future research of UGS was suggested.
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17
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Urban Cemeteries—Places of Multiple Diversity and Challenges. A Case Study from Łódź (Poland) and Leipzig (Germany). LAND 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/land11050677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
This article presents a pilot study investigating the multidimensional diversity of cemeteries as an important element of cultural heritage and green infrastructure within the urban landscape. We studied the state and diversity of nature, perceptions, and activities of visitors. As religion is an important aspect that differentiates cemeteries from each other, we studied a sample of four multi-confessional urban cemeteries in Łódź (Poland) and Leipzig (Germany) by using site observation and a questionnaire survey. We found that cemeteries are far undervalued as public green resources that can perform important functions in sociocultural life and the mental well-being of the general public, as the perceptions of silence- and contemplation-seeking visitors tell us. The perception of cemeteries depends on the level of secularization, varying from a sacrum sphere up to specific recreational and touristic opportunities; findings that should be considered by town planners when optimizing the cultural ecosystem services of green spaces.
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18
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Analysis of Blue Infrastructure Network Pattern in the Hanjiang Ecological Economic Zone in China. WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14081234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
As a crucial part of urban development, blue infrastructure (BI) provides multiecosystem services. Using the Hanjiang Ecological Economic Zone as the study area, the potential benefits of a BI network were constructed using morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA) and minimum cumulative resistance model (MCR) for three periods in order to assess network structure. The main conclusions are: (1) The total BI area of the study location increased at first and then decreased from 2010 to 2020, during which the area of the core and loop was continually rising while the islet and bridge were gradually dropping. These results reveal that landscape fragmentation was well controlled; (2) Both the Integral Index of Connectivity(IIC) and Probability of Connectivity(PC) of the landscape showed an increasing trend, but the integral connectivity level was still low; (3) The comprehensive resistance value decreased gradually from west to east. The potential corridors were concentrated in the middle and lower reaches of the Hanjiang and extended upstream. The amount decreased first and then increased. (4) The structure of the BI network was simple first and then complex, which is in line with changes in the number of BI sources. Thus, changes in the BI network pattern are closely linked to the changes in the study area and the number of BI sources.
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19
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de Oliveira Rolo DADM, Gallardo ALCF, Ribeiro AP, Siqueira-Gay J. Local Society Perception on Ecosystem Services as an Adaptation Strategy in Urban Stream Recovery Programs in the City of São Paulo, Brazil. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 69:684-698. [PMID: 33856561 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-021-01471-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Recent public policies in developing countries have emerged to address challenges of delivering water-related ecosystem services in urban areas. Some initiatives, such as the Brazilian Plan for Adaptation to Climate Change (BPACC) highlights sustainable urban drainage as a key strategy for promoting sustainable cities, including ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) measures. Despite the importance of these national guidelines, little is known about how the recommendations are incorporated and the provision of ecosystem services are perceived in local initiatives. We aim to explore stakeholders' perception of ecosystem services in relation to public urban programs for improving the local environment through EbA measures. For this, we studied a stream revitalization project in the city of São Paulo, Brazil, as an emblematic case by integrating three public programs: re-urbanization of irregular settlements, implementation of linear parks and cleansing of urban streams. Our methods involved literature review, documentary data, field surveys and semi-structured interviews with local populations, public agents, and NGOs. Despite some positive results of supplying ecosystem services, we recommend that local programs expand the scope of EbA measures based on BPACC guidelines, strengthen the specific objectives of the three individual public programs and better manage public resources, especially in the context of promoting resilient cities in developing countries. At the same time, local programs can teach lessons and show opportunities for improving national guidelines on climate change adaptation.
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20
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Xiang L, Tian Y, Pan Y. Study on landscape evaluation and optimization strategy of Central Park in Qingkou Town. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1978. [PMID: 35132141 PMCID: PMC8821700 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06006-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
This article mainly discusses the evaluation and optimization of the green space utilization value of comprehensive parks used by people in dense urban areas based on the desire for green and healthy living in the postepidemic era. As a qualitative study of urban parks, this study builds an evaluation system based on the American landscape performance series and combines it with comprehensive indicators of China’s urban parks, including environmental performance (such as park planning, infrastructure, trails, and vegetation), health performance (such as cultural education, park activities, and transportation accessibility) economic performance (such as tourist consumption and stimulating the development of surrounding construction) and three other aspects: conducting a site evaluation; evaluating observed behavior, interviews and questionnaires; and performing the analytic hierarchy process–coefficient of variation weight comprehensive evaluation analysis. Additionally, the park comprehensive index, land use index, traffic convenience, park vitality index and other dynamic changes are analyzed over time. The purpose is to explore the foundation of urban parks after the epidemic. The role of the urban park environment in sustainable ecological development is verified, and appropriate optimization and improvement actions are determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Xiang
- Department of Environmental Art Design, Shanghai Academy of Fine Arts, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Yunqing Tian
- Department of Environmental Art Design, Shanghai Academy of Fine Arts, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Yucong Pan
- Department of Culture and Media, Ningde Vocational and Technical College, Ningde, Fujian, China
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21
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Egerer M, Lin B, Kingsley J, Marsh P, Diekmann L, Ossola A. Gardening can relieve human stress and boost nature connection during the COVID-19 pandemic. URBAN FORESTRY & URBAN GREENING 2022; 68:127483. [PMID: 35069065 PMCID: PMC8767951 DOI: 10.1016/j.ufug.2022.127483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has severely disrupted social life. Gardens and yards have seemingly risen as a lifeline during the pandemic. Here, we investigated the relationship between people and gardening during the COVID-19 pandemic and what factors influenced the ability of people to garden. We examined survey responses (n = 3,743) from gardeners who reported how the pandemic had affected personal motivations to garden and their use of their gardens, alongside pandemic-related challenges, such as food access during the first wave of COVID-19 (May-Aug 2020). The results show that for the respondents, gardening was overwhelmingly important for nature connection, individual stress release, outdoor physical activity and food provision. The importance of food provision and economic security were also important for those facing greater hardships from the pandemic. While the literature on gardening has long shown the multiple benefits of gardening, we report on these benefits during a global pandemic. More research is needed to capture variations in public sentiment and practice - including those who do little gardening, have less access to land, and reside in low-income communities particularly in the global south. Nevertheless, we argue that gardening can be a public health strategy, readily accessible to boost societal resilience to disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Egerer
- Department of Life Science Systems, School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Hans Carl-von-Carlowitz-Platz 2, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Brenda Lin
- CSIRO Land & Water, GPO Box 2583, Brisbane, QLD, 4001, Australia
| | - Jonathan Kingsley
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, 12 Wakefield Street (Swinburne Place West), Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
- Centre of Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology, Level 1 EW Building, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia
| | - Pauline Marsh
- Centre for Rural Health, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia
| | - Lucy Diekmann
- University of California Cooperative Extension, 1553 Berger Dr., San Jose, CA, 95112, USA
| | - Alessandro Ossola
- University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- University of Melbourne, Australia
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22
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Vári Á, Podschun SA, Erős T, Hein T, Pataki B, Iojă IC, Adamescu CM, Gerhardt A, Gruber T, Dedić A, Ćirić M, Gavrilović B, Báldi A. Freshwater systems and ecosystem services: Challenges and chances for cross-fertilization of disciplines. AMBIO 2022; 51:135-151. [PMID: 33983559 PMCID: PMC8651970 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-021-01556-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Freshwater ecosystems are among the most threatened in the world, while providing numerous essential ecosystem services (ES) to humans. Despite their importance, research on freshwater ecosystem services is limited. Here, we examine how freshwater studies could help to advance ES research and vice versa. We summarize major knowledge gaps and suggest solutions focusing on science and policy in Europe. We found several features that are unique to freshwater ecosystems, but often disregarded in ES assessments. Insufficient transfer of knowledge towards stakeholders is also problematic. Knowledge transfer and implementation seems to be less effective towards South-east Europe. Focusing on the strengths of freshwater research regarding connectivity, across borders, involving multiple actors can help to improve ES research towards a more dynamic, landscape-level approach, which we believe can boost the implementation of the ES concept in freshwater policies. Bridging these gaps can contribute to achieve the ambitious targets of the EU's Green Deal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ágnes Vári
- Lendület Ecosystem Services Research Group, Centre for Ecological Research, 2-4 Alkotmány utca, 2163 Vácrátót, Hungary
| | - Simone A. Podschun
- Department Ecohydrology, Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB), Justus-von-Liebig-Str. 7, 12489 Berlin, Germany
| | - Tibor Erős
- ELKH Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Klebelsberg K. u. 3, 8237 Tihany, Hungary
| | - Thomas Hein
- Institute of Hydrobiology and Aquatic Ecosystem Management, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Gregor-Mendel-Straße 33, 1180 Vienna, Austria
- WasserCluster Lunz - Biologische Station, Dr. Carl-Kupelwieser-Prom. 5, 3293 Lunz/See, Austria
| | - Beáta Pataki
- Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Debrecen, Ótemető u. 2-4, 4028 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ioan-Cristian Iojă
- Center for Environmental Research and Impact Studies, University of Bucharest, Bulevardul Nicolae Bălcescu nr. 1, Bucureşti, 030167 Romania
| | - Cristian Mihai Adamescu
- Research Center for Systems Ecology and Sustainability, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Almut Gerhardt
- Limco International GmbH, Wollmatinger Str. 22, 78467 Constance, Germany
| | - Tamás Gruber
- WWF Hungary, Álmos vezér útja 69/A, 1141 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anita Dedić
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science and Education, University of Mostar, Rodoč bb, 88 000 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Miloš Ćirić
- Institute of Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Njegoševa 12, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Bojan Gavrilović
- Department of Physical Geography, Geographical Institute “Jovan Cvijić”, Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Djure Jakšića 9, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - András Báldi
- Lendület Ecosystem Services Research Group, Centre for Ecological Research, 2-4 Alkotmány utca, 2163 Vácrátót, Hungary
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23
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Accessibility to and Availability of Urban Green Spaces (UGS) to Support Health and Wellbeing during the COVID-19 Pandemic—The Case of Bologna. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su131911054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In accordance with SDG N11.7, each city should work on providing “by 2030, universal access to safe, inclusive and accessible, green and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons and persons with disabilities”. This target became even more crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. This paper presents and discuss a method for (i) assessing the current distribution and accessibility of urban green spaces (UGSs) in a city using hierarchical network distances; and (ii) quantifying the per capita values of accessible UGSs, also in light of the restrictions in place, namely social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The methods have been tested in the city of Bologna, and the results highlight urban areas that suffer from a scarcity of accessible UGSs and identify potentially overcrowded UGSs, assessing residents’ pressure over diverse UGSs of the city in question. Based on our results, this work allows for the identification of priorities of intervention to overcome these issues, while also considering temporary solutions for facing the eventual scarce provision of UGSs and related health and wellbeing benefits in periods of movement restrictions.
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24
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Assessment of Blue and Green Infrastructure Solutions in Shaping Urban Public Spaces—Spatial and Functional, Environmental, and Social Aspects. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su131911041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Blue and Green Infrastructure (BGI) provide one of the key Nature Based Solution (NBS) approaches for sustainable stormwater management in cities, in conjunction with extending the scope of Ecosystem Services (ES). In both the process of planning and designing highly urbanized areas, the implementation of BGI is important for the improvement of living conditions and counteracting the negative effects of climate change. Based on the literature review, 19 BGI solutions were identified and then valorized in relation to the following three key aspects: spatial and functional, environmental, and social. The results of the assessment were derived using the scoring method and allowed for the identification of BGI solutions with a high, medium or low value for shaping sustainable urban public spaces. Using the potential of analyzed BGI solutions to improve the functioning and attractiveness of urban areas requires a comprehensive approach. Conscious planning and designing should use the knowledge presented to make the implementation of BGI solutions as effective as possible in relation to the above-mentioned aspects of shaping urban public spaces.
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25
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Samuelsson K, Barthel S, Giusti M, Hartig T. Visiting nearby natural settings supported wellbeing during Sweden's "soft-touch" pandemic restrictions. LANDSCAPE AND URBAN PLANNING 2021; 214:104176. [PMID: 35719409 PMCID: PMC9188842 DOI: 10.1016/j.landurbplan.2021.104176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus pandemic entailed varying restrictions on access, movement and social behavior in populations around the world. Knowledge about how people coped with "soft-touch" restrictions can inform urban spatial planning strategies that enhance resilience against future pandemics. We analyzed data from an online place-based survey on 2845 places across Sweden that respondents abstained from visiting, visited with similar frequency, or visited more frequently in spring 2020 as compared to before the pandemic. In spatial logistic regression models, we relate geographical and sociodemographic properties of places (fields, forests, water, residential population density and daytime population density) to self-perceived changes in wellbeing from visiting the given place less or more often, respectively. Abstaining from visiting places with natural features located in areas of high residential density was associated with a self-perceived negative influence on wellbeing. Yet, fields, forests and water were strongly associated with places people claimed wellbeing benefits from during pandemic restrictions. The further a visited place was from the respondent's home, the more likely it was to have a positive wellbeing influence. As an illustrative case, we map our models onto the landscape of Stockholm, showing that some neighborhoods are likely more resilient than others when coping with pandemic restrictions. Both the most and least resilient neighborhoods span the socio-economic spectrum. Urban planning will do well to enable equitable, easy access to natural settings by foot or bike, to increase pandemic preparedness as well as support climate change mitigation and biodiversity protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Samuelsson
- Department of Computer and Geospatial Sciences, University of Gävle, Kungsbäcksvägen 47, 801 76 Gävle, Sweden
| | - Stephan Barthel
- Department of Building Engineering, Energy Systems and Sustainability Science, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Matteo Giusti
- Department of Building Engineering, Energy Systems and Sustainability Science, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Terry Hartig
- Institute for Housing and Urban Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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26
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Andersson E. "Reconnecting cities to the biosphere: Stewardship of green infrastructure and urban ecosystem services" - where did it come from and what happened next? : This article belongs to Ambio's 50th Anniversary Collection. Theme: Urbanization. AMBIO 2021; 50:1636-1638. [PMID: 33710514 PMCID: PMC8285438 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-021-01515-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Erik Andersson
- Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Unit for Environmental Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
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27
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Setting the Social Monitoring Framework for Nature-Based Solutions Impact: Methodological Approach and Pre-Greening Measurements in the Case Study from CLEVER Cities Milan. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13179672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Nature-based solutions (NBS) are currently being deployed in many European Commission Horizon 2020 projects in reaction to the increasing number of environmental threats, such as climate change, unsustainable urbanization, degradation and loss of natural capital and ecosystem services. In this research, we consider the application of NBS as a catalyst for social inclusivity in urban regeneration strategies, enabled through civic participation in the co-creation of green interventions with respect to social cohesion and wellbeing. This article is focused on a social monitoring framework elaborated within the H2020 CLEVER Cities project, with the city of Milan as a case study. Firstly, we overviewed the major regeneration challenges and expected co-benefits of the project, which are mainly human health and wellbeing, social cohesion and environmental justice, as well as citizen perception about safety and security related to the NBS implementation process. Secondly, we examined the relevance of using NBS in addressing social co-benefits by analyzing data from questionnaires against a set of five major indicators, submitted to citizens and participants of activities during pre-greening interventions: (1) Place, use of space and relationship with nature, (2) Perceived ownership and sense of belonging, (3) Psychosocial issues, social interactions and social cohesion, (4) Citizen perception about safety and security, and lastly, we analyzed (5) knowledge about CLEVER interventions and NBS benefits in relation to socio-demographics of the questionnaires’ respondents. Thirdly, we cross-referenced a wind-rose multi-model of co-benefits analysis for NBS across the regeneration challenges of the project. Because of the COVID-19 emergency, in this research we mainly focused on site observations and online questionnaires, as well as on monitoring pre-greening scenarios in three Urban Living Labs (ULLs) in Milan, namely CLEVER Action Labs. Lastly, this study emphasizes the expected social added values of NBS impact over long-term urban regeneration projects. Insights from the pre-greening surveys results accentuate the importance of the NBS interventions in citizens’ perceptions about their wellbeing, general health and strong sense of neighborhood belonging. A wider interest towards civic participation in co-management and getting informed about NBS interventions in the Milanese context is also noted.
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Lin BB, Ossola A, Alberti M, Andersson E, Bai X, Dobbs C, Elmqvist T, Evans KL, Frantzeskaki N, Fuller RA, Gaston KJ, Haase D, Jim CY, Konijnendijk C, Nagendra H, Niemelä J, McPhearson T, Moomaw WR, Parnell S, Pataki D, Ripple WJ, Tan PY. Integrating solutions to adapt cities for climate change. Lancet Planet Health 2021; 5:e479-e486. [PMID: 34245718 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(21)00135-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Record climate extremes are reducing urban liveability, compounding inequality, and threatening infrastructure. Adaptation measures that integrate technological, nature-based, and social solutions can provide multiple co-benefits to address complex socioecological issues in cities while increasing resilience to potential impacts. However, there remain many challenges to developing and implementing integrated solutions. In this Viewpoint, we consider the value of integrating across the three solution sets, the challenges and potential enablers for integrating solution sets, and present examples of challenges and adopted solutions in three cities with different urban contexts and climates (Freiburg, Germany; Durban, South Africa; and Singapore). We conclude with a discussion of research directions and provide a road map to identify the actions that enable successful implementation of integrated climate solutions. We highlight the need for more systematic research that targets enabling environments for integration; achieving integrated solutions in different contexts to avoid maladaptation; simultaneously improving liveability, sustainability, and equality; and replicating via transfer and scale-up of local solutions. Cities in systematically disadvantaged countries (sometimes referred to as the Global South) are central to future urban development and must be prioritised. Helping decision makers and communities understand the potential opportunities associated with integrated solutions for climate change will encourage urgent and deliberate strides towards adapting cities to the dynamic climate reality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro Ossola
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences, University of Melbourne, Burnley, VIC, Australia
| | - Marina Alberti
- Department of Urban Design and Planning, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Erik Andersson
- Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm, Sweden; Unit for Environmental Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Xuemei Bai
- Fenner School of Environment & Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Cynnamon Dobbs
- Center for Modeling and Monitoring Ecosystems, School of Forest Engineering, Faculty of Science, Universidad Mayor, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Karl L Evans
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Niki Frantzeskaki
- Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Richard A Fuller
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kevin J Gaston
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, UK
| | - Dagmar Haase
- Department of Geography, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Department Computational Landscape Ecology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Chi Yung Jim
- Department of Social Sciences, Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Cecil Konijnendijk
- Department of Forest Resources Management, University of British Columbia, BC, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Harini Nagendra
- Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability, Azim Premji University, Bengaluru, India
| | | | - Timon McPhearson
- Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm, Sweden; Urban Systems Lab, New School, New York, NY, USA; Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Millbrook, NY, USA
| | - William R Moomaw
- Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA; Woodwell Climate Research Center, Falmouth, MA, USA
| | - Susan Parnell
- African Centre for Cities, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Diane Pataki
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - William J Ripple
- Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
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Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems in Spain: Analysis of the Research on SUDS Based on Climatology. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13137258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS), or urban green infrastructure for stormwater control, emerged for more sustainable management of runoff in cities and provide other benefits such as urban mitigation and adaptation to climate change. Research in Spain began a little over twenty years ago, which was later than in other European countries, and it began in a heterogeneous way, both in the SUDS typology and spatially within the peninsular geography. The main objective of this work has been to know through bibliographic review the state of the art of scientific research of these systems and their relationship with the different types of climates in the country. These structures have a complex and sensitive dependence on the climate, which in the Iberian Peninsula is mostly type B and C (according to the Köppen classification). This means little water availability for the vegetation of some SUDS, which can affect the performance of the technique. To date, for this work, research has focused mainly on green roofs, their capabilities as a sustainable construction tool, and the performance of different plant species used in these systems in arid climates. The next technique with the most real cases analyzed is permeable pavements in temperate climates, proving to be effective in reducing flows and runoff volumes. Other specific investigations have focused on the economic feasibility of installing rainwater harvesting systems for the laundry and the hydraulic performance of retention systems located specifically in the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula. On the contrary, few scientific articles have appeared that describe other SUDS with vegetation such as bioretention systems or green ditches, which are characteristic of sustainable cities, on which the weather can be a very limiting factor for their development.
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Langen TA, Cannon CH, Blackburn DC, Morgan EL, Mera PE. Discovering and Applying the Urban Rules of Life to Design Sustainable and Healthy Cities. Integr Comp Biol 2021; 61:1237-1252. [PMID: 33956145 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icab065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The city and its urban biome provides an extreme laboratory for studying fundamental biological questions and developing best practices for sustaining biodiverse and well-functioning ecological communities within anthropogenic built environments. We propose by studying urban organisms, urban biotic communities, the urban biome, and the interactions between the urban biome and peri-urban built and natural environments, we can (1) discover new 'rules of life' for the structure, function, interaction, and evolution of organisms;(2) use these discoveries to understand how novel emerging biotic communities affect and are affected by anthropogenic environmental changes in climate and other environmental factors; and (3) apply what we have learned to engage residents of the urban biome, and design cities that are more biologically diverse, are provided with more and better ecosystem services, and are more equitable and healthier places to live. The built environment of the urban biome is a place that reflects history, economics, technology, governance, culture, and values of the human residents; research on and applications of the rules of life in the urban biome can be used by all residents in making choices about the design of the cities where they live. Because inhabitants are directly invested in the environmental quality of their neighborhoods, research conducted in and about the urban environment provides a great opportunity to engage wide and diverse communities of people. Given the opportunity to engage a broad constituency - from basic researchers to teachers, civil engineers, landscape planners, and concerned citizens - studying the translation of the rules of life onto the urban environment will result in an integrative and cross-cutting set of questions and hypotheses, and will foster a dialogue among citizens about the focus of urban biome research and its application toward making more equitable, healthy, livable, sustainable, and biodiverse cities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Eric L Morgan
- Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
| | - Paola E Mera
- Department of Microbiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
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Selmi W, Selmi S, Teller J, Weber C, Rivière E, Nowak DJ. Prioritizing the provision of urban ecosystem services in deprived areas, a question of environmental justice. AMBIO 2021; 50:1035-1046. [PMID: 33244744 PMCID: PMC8035335 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-020-01438-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The distribution of urban ecosystem services (UES) is often uneven across socioeconomic groups, leading to environmental justice issues. Understanding the distribution of UES across a landscape can help managers ensure an equitable distribution of services. While many past studies have focused on the distribution of green spaces in relation to socioeconomic variables, this research analyzes the distribution of UES provided by these green spaces. This research quantified air pollution removal, atmospheric carbon reduction, and surface runoff mitigation provided by urban trees in Strasbourg city (France). The provision of these three UES was studied at the census block scale by creating an index of UES delivery, which was contrasted with a constructed social deprivation index. Our results show that there is no significant association between the delivery of UES and social deprivation. Some deprived populations benefit from high UES delivery. Results also suggest that mapping associations between UES delivery and social deprivation should be integrated with future development plans to enhance the equitable distribution of UES. This study provides insights into the French context where studies about the distribution of UES at a small-area level remain lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wissal Selmi
- Local Environment Management and Analysis (LEMA), University of Liege, 9 allée de la découverte, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Slaheddine Selmi
- Département des Sciences de la Vie, Faculté des Sciences, University of Gabès, Zrig, 6072 Gabès, Tunisia
| | - Jacques Teller
- Local Environment Management and Analysis (LEMA), University of Liege, 9 allée de la découverte, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Christiane Weber
- Territoires, environnement, télédétection et information spatiale (UMR TETIS), TETIS, CNRS, Uni. Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | | | - David J. Nowak
- USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station, 5 Moon Library, SUNY-ESF, Syracuse, NY 13210 USA
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Human Dimensions of Urban Blue and Green Infrastructure during a Pandemic. Case Study of Moscow (Russia) and Perth (Australia). SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13084148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Significant challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted that features of a modern, sustainable and resilient city should not only relate to fulfilling economic and social urban strategies, but also to functional urban design, in particular, related to urban blue and green infrastructure (BGI). Using results from a web-based questionnaire survey conducted May–July 2020 in Moscow (Russia) and Perth (Australia), this paper provides insights regarding citizens’ needs for and values of urban BGI as well as their changes during and after the COVID-19 restrictions. Survey data collected during the lockdown period have captured information about people’s ability to access green and blue spaces within urban BGI, inequalities in access, feelings, and values as well as needs and perceived pathways of future development of urban natural environment. In both cities, lockdowns limited access of people to green spaces which affected their mental and physical health. Survey results revealed that the quality, functionality, and location of open green spaces illustrated a disparity in distribution, meaning that in many cases several communities from particular neighborhoods suffered from limited access to BGI. Furthermore, in addition to analyzing perceptions and values of urban nature during the COVID-19 pandemic, some suggestions for improvement of urban BGI based on the survey responses are provided.
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Green Roof Enhancement on Buildings of the University of Applied Sciences in Neubrandenburg (Germany) in Times of Climate Change. ATMOSPHERE 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos12030382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The reduction in evaporative surfaces in cities is one driver for longer and hotter summers. Greening building surfaces can help to mitigate the loss of vegetated cover. Typical extensive green roof structures, such as sedum-based solutions, survive in dry periods, but how can green roofs be made to be more effective for the longer hot and dry periods to come? The research findings are based on continuous vegetation analytics of typical extensive green roofs over the past 20 years. -Survival of longer dry periods by fully adapted plants species with a focus on the fittest and best adapted species. -Additional technical and treatment solutions to support greater water storage in the media in dry periods and to support greater plant biomass/high biodiversity on the roofs by optimizing growing media with fertilizer to achieve higher evapotranspiration (short: ET) values. The main findings of this research: -The climate benefits of green roofs are associated with the quantity of phytomass. Selecting the right growing media is critical. -Typical extensive green roof substrates have poor nutrition levels. Fertilizer can significantly boost the ecological effects on CO2 fixation. -If the goal of the green roof is a highly biodiverse green roof, micro-structures are the right solution.
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Porcherie M, Linn N, Le Gall AR, Thomas MF, Faure E, Rican S, Simos J, Cantoreggi N, Vaillant Z, Cambon L, Regnaux JP. Relationship between Urban Green Spaces and Cancer: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:1751. [PMID: 33670207 PMCID: PMC7916941 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This scoping study aims to explore the relationships between urban green spaces (UGSs) and the onset, remission and recovery of cancer. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) extension for scoping reviews (protocol published in 2018). Eligibility criteria for papers were: (1) to be concerned with UGSs, (2) reporting effects of UGSs on cancer-related outcomes including direct or indirect measures, (3) reporting randomized controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, case studies, observational studies, non-comparative studies, (4) in English or French. The search covered primary studies in the published and unpublished (grey) literatures searching by hand and electronic databases (MEDLINE, Green File, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and ScienceDirect). Among 1703 records screened by two reviewers independently, 29 were included for qualitative synthesis. We classify the cancers concerned and the effects reported i.e., protective effect, risk or without association. The most investigated cancers are bladder, breast and lung cancer. Our study also identified contributing factors and their mediating effects between UGSs and cancer. Even though the strength of the evidence of the associations between UGSs and cancer is still weak due to the low number of studies and their design, results highlight the wide variety of possible mediating factors between the use of green spaces and cancer occurrence, remission and/or prevention. Knowledge gaps and future research perspectives should be oriented to qualitative research on protective factors with an attention to equity in UGS access and use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Porcherie
- EHESP, French School of Public Health, Av du Pr Léon Bernard, 35043 Rennes CEDEX, France; (A.R.L.G.); (M.-F.T.)
- Arènes UMR CNRS 6051, Université Rennes 1, 140 Bd de la Duchesse Anne, 35700 Rennes, France;
| | - Nyan Linn
- Arènes UMR CNRS 6051, Université Rennes 1, 140 Bd de la Duchesse Anne, 35700 Rennes, France;
| | - Anne Roué Le Gall
- EHESP, French School of Public Health, Av du Pr Léon Bernard, 35043 Rennes CEDEX, France; (A.R.L.G.); (M.-F.T.)
- Arènes UMR CNRS 6051, Université Rennes 1, 140 Bd de la Duchesse Anne, 35700 Rennes, France;
| | - Marie-Florence Thomas
- EHESP, French School of Public Health, Av du Pr Léon Bernard, 35043 Rennes CEDEX, France; (A.R.L.G.); (M.-F.T.)
- Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail)—UMR_S 1085, Univ. Rennes, 35043 Rennes, France
| | - Emmanuelle Faure
- Laboratoire Dynamiques Sociales et Recomposition des Espaces (LADYSS UMR CNRS 7533), Université Paris-Nanterre, 92001 Nanterre, France; (E.F.); (S.R.); (Z.V.)
| | - Stéphane Rican
- Laboratoire Dynamiques Sociales et Recomposition des Espaces (LADYSS UMR CNRS 7533), Université Paris-Nanterre, 92001 Nanterre, France; (E.F.); (S.R.); (Z.V.)
| | - Jean Simos
- Campus Biotech—Chemin des Mines 9, Institut de Santé Globale, Université de Genève, 1202 Genève, Switzerland; (J.S.); (N.C.)
| | - Nicola Cantoreggi
- Campus Biotech—Chemin des Mines 9, Institut de Santé Globale, Université de Genève, 1202 Genève, Switzerland; (J.S.); (N.C.)
| | - Zoé Vaillant
- Laboratoire Dynamiques Sociales et Recomposition des Espaces (LADYSS UMR CNRS 7533), Université Paris-Nanterre, 92001 Nanterre, France; (E.F.); (S.R.); (Z.V.)
| | - Linda Cambon
- Equipe MesRI-Inserm U1219, Université de Bordeaux, 146 Rue Léo Saignat, 33000 Bordeaux, France;
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Abstract
Urban green spaces are frequently presented as being important for urban quality of life and urban development in general, but more detailed interpretations and discussions are typically confined to large urban centers, the so-called first- and second-tier cities. Not enough attention has been paid to smaller urban units, the third-tier towns. The main goal of this article is to investigate the share and types of urban green spaces in five selected towns in Poland. We compare different sources of data based on satellite imagery and land-use maps with those used in public statistics, to check whether town authorities are managing all potential green spaces or only a selected part of them. We find that the predominantly used data, based on what is classified as “urban green space” for the purposes of public statistics, obscure the complexity of urban green spaces and focus on the narrowly understood formally managed public green spaces (which occupy 3.5–5.7% of town areas). Meanwhile, based on other sources, such as the national land-use map (BDOT10k), Urban Atlas, and satellite imagery (Landsat 8), what is considered to be green space turns out to cover 50–80% of the town area. The latter large numbers are associated with the predominance of arable land, grasslands, and forests, overlooked in any green space management practices based on data and definitions adopted for the purposes of public statistics. The situation found in our five case study towns resembles that identified in larger cities in Poland, and it exhibits the inadequacy of public statistics definitions and the related management practices, hindering the management of urban green spaces as an interconnected system of urban green infrastructures.
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How Urban Forest Managers Evaluate Management and Governance Challenges in Their Decision-Making. FORESTS 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/f11090963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Decisions about urban forests are critical to urban liveability and resilience. This study aimed to evaluate the range of positions held by urban forest managers from local governments in the state of Victoria, Australia, regarding the management and governance challenges that affect their decision-making. This study was based on a Q-method approach, a procedure that allows researchers to evaluate the range of positions that exist about a topic in a structured manner based on the experiences of a wide group of people. We created statements on a wide range of urban forest management and governance challenges and asked urban forest managers to rate their level of agreement with these statements via an online survey. Managers generally agreed about the challenges posed by urban development and climate change for implementing local government policies on urban forest protection and expansion. However, there were divergent views about how effective solutions based on increasing operational capacities, such as increasing budgets and personnel, could address these challenges. For some managers, it was more effective to improve critical governance challenges, such as inter-departmental and inter-municipal coordination, community engagement, and addressing the culture of risk aversion in local governments. Urban forest regional strategies aimed at coordinating management and governance issues across cities should build on existing consensus on development and environmental threats and address critical management and governance issues not solely related to local government operational capacity.
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Creating a Map of the Social Functions of Urban Green Spaces in a City with Poor Availability of Spatial Data: A Sociotope for Lodz. LAND 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/land9060183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Many cities lack complex spatial databases that can answer the question “What does a given green space offer?” This complicates the lives of inhabitants, planners, and local authorities. One of the ways to obtain a complex picture of urban green spaces is to link multiple data sources. This article presents such an attempt to link multiple data sources to obtain a map of the social functions of urban green spaces in a city without a comprehensive spatial database on urban green spaces. We do so by adapting a method of mapping the social functions of urban green spaces—sociotope mapping—to the Central-Eastern European city of Lodz (Poland). Our results feature a map of the main social functions of urban green spaces (divided into five categories: nature, physical activity, social, play, and aesthetics) and GIS databases, with spatially explicit information on the 48 attributes of 196 urban green spaces in Lodz. According to our results, the greatest effort in sociotope mapping involves collecting data from different sources as it requires collaborating with various stakeholders—the owners of the data. Our study fits into the general trend of linking official data from municipal records with additional data on inhabitants’ preferences for urban green space planning and management.
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Urban vacant lands impart hydrological benefits across city landscapes. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1563. [PMID: 32218437 PMCID: PMC7099022 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-15376-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Cities evolve through phases of construction, demolition, vacancy, and redevelopment, each impacting water movement at the land surface by altering soil hydrologic properties, land cover, and topography. Currently unknown is whether the variable physical and vegetative characteristics associated with vacant parcels and introduced by demolition may absorb rainfall and thereby diminish stormwater runoff. To investigate this, we evaluate how vacant lots modulate citywide hydrologic partitioning by synthesizing a novel field dataset across 500+ parcels in Buffalo, New York, USA. Vacant lot infiltration rates vary widely (0.001 to 5.39 cm h-1), though parcels are generally well-vegetated and gently sloped. Extending field estimates to 2400 vacant parcels, we estimate that vacant lands citywide may cumulatively infiltrate 51-54% additional annual rainfall volume as compared to pre-demolition state, in part by reducing and disconnecting impervious areas. Our findings differentiate vacant lots as purposeful landscapes that can alleviate large water fluxes into aging wastewater infrastructure.
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A Planning Support Tool for Layout Integral Optimization of Urban Blue–Green Infrastructure. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12041613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Urban blue infrastructure (UBI) and urban green infrastructure (UGI) can be seen as an integrated system in which services and spatial layouts complement each other. However, given its complexity, it is difficult to integrate and optimize the layout of urban blue and green infrastructure (UBGI) in the built environment. This study develops a planning support tool for the layout integral optimization (PSTLIO) of UBGI. Using Hekou City in China as a case study, service demands and the supply of suitable land for UBGI development are assessed and mapped on geographic information system (GIS). The potential areas for UBGI development are delineated after mapping assessments of service demand and land supply and suitability. Following discussions on the exact means for PSTLIO to support the layout optimization of UBGI, a PSTLIO-based solution is developed to structure the UBGI link network and hub system, define the functions and service patterns of single UBGI components, and provide guidance for determining the scale of UBGI components. The results show that PSTLIO is able to provide a quantifiable base for decision-making in UBGI layout optimization.
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Giusti M, Samuelsson K. The regenerative compatibility: A synergy between healthy ecosystems, environmental attitudes, and restorative experiences. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0227311. [PMID: 31910442 PMCID: PMC6946585 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Urban nature is and will be the most common provider of nature interactions for humankind. The restorative benefits of nature exposure are renown and creating human habitats that simultaneously support people’s wellbeing and ecological sustainability is an urgent priority. In this study, we investigate how the relationship between environmental attitudes and healthy ecosystems influences restorative experiences combining a place-based online survey with geographical data on ecosystem health in Stockholm (Sweden). Using spatial regression, we predict the 544 restorative experiences (from 325 respondents), with people’s environmental attitudes, natural land covers, ecosystem health, and the statistical interactions among these variables as predictors. Our results show that restorative experiences can happen anywhere in the urban landscape, but when they occur in natural environments, the combined levels of biodiversity and ecological connectivity are better predicting factor than the mere presence of nature. That is, healthy ecosystems seem to be more important than just any nature for restorative experiences. Moreover, the statistical interaction between one’s environmental attitudes and natural environments predict almost all restorative experiences better than when these variables are independent predictors. This suggests that there is synergistic compatibility between environmental attitudes and healthy ecosystems that triggers restorative processes. We call this synergy regenerative compatibility. Regenerative compatibility is an unexploited potential that emerges when people’s attitudes and ecosystems are aligned in sustainability. We consider regenerative compatibility a valuable leverage point to transform towards ecologically sustainable and healthy urban systems. To this end, we encourage multifaceted policy interventions that regenerate human-nature relationships holistically rather than implement atomistic solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Giusti
- Department of Building Engineering, Energy Systems and Sustainability Science, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Karl Samuelsson
- Department of Geospatial and Computer Sciences, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
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