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Consideration of the future fate of brownfields in urban environments has driven a complex 'season' of decisions, planning, and implementation that has seen the emergence of different approaches and actions for their reuse. Among the various experiences of brownfield redevelopment, some projects have also promoted the partial renaturalisation of areas through soil desealing and demolition of existing buildings. These greening initiatives have provided new public facilities, e.g., parks and green areas, helping to improve the conditions of urban environments both from ecological and social perspectives. This article adopts ex ante and ex post methods to analyse two Italian case studies of brownfield regeneration involving desealing interventions and investigates two key aspects: (i) the planning process and tools that were put in place to implement the projects and (ii) the impacts for human wellbeing that were produced in terms of cooling effects. The analyses conducted show the real effectiveness of renaturation interventions especially related to reforestation measures in terms of temperature reduction. The examination of the two case studies also revealed the importance and potential success of traditional planning and implementation tools in promoting interventions that can now be considered innovative in terms of their actual contribution to current urban challenges. The results therefore allow us to emphasize the fundamental importance of the philosophy and basic principles of a transformation process, even guided by traditional planning tools, for the improvement of the environmental conditions of an urban context and the successful implementation of nature-based solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban green spaces play a crucial role in providing social services and enhancing residents' mental health. It is essential for sustainable urban planning to explore the relationship between urban green spaces and human perceptions, particularly their visual comfort. However, most current research has analyzed green spaces using two-dimensional indicators (remote sensing), which often overlook human visual perceptions. This study combined two-dimensional and three-dimensional methods to evaluate urban green spaces. Additionally, the study employed machine learning to quantify residents' visual comfort in green-space environments and explored the relationship between green spaces and human visual perceptions. The results indicated that Kitakyushu exhibited a moderate FCV and an extremely low Green View Index (GVI). Yahatanishi-ku was characterized as having the highest visual comfort. Tobata-ku demonstrated the lowest visual comfort. Natural, GVI, openness, enclosure, vegetation diversity, landscape diversity, and NDBI were positively correlated with visual comfort. FCV and ENVI were negatively correlated with visual comfort. Vegetation diversity had the most impact on improving visual comfort. By integrating remote sensing and street-view data, this study introduces a methodology to ensure a more holistic assessment of green spaces. Urban planners could use it to better identify areas with insufficient green space or areas that require improvement in terms of green-space quality. Meanwhile, it could be helpful in providing valuable input for formulating more effective green-space policies and improving overall urban environmental quality. The study provides a scientific foundation for urban planners to improve the planning and construction of healthy and sustainable cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive alien plants (IAPs) are rapidly increasing around the world, mainly due to land transformation, climate change, and urbanisation. Whilst urban areas are highly susceptible to invasion by IAPs, crucial information on the distribution and abundance of woody invaders in small towns is limited. Here, we determined the distribution and abundance of woody IAPs across different suburbs and land use types in 12 small towns in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. We enumerated 38 427 individual woody IAPs, and their abundance and distribution varied across surveyed towns. Although species such as Melia azedarach, Pinus elliotti, Jacaranda mimosifolia, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, and Ligustrum lucidum were the most distributed, species density varied across towns. More than half of the woody IAPs were identified in affluent (56%) suburbs compared to the townships (23%), Central business district (CBD) (16%), and low-income housing neighbourhoods (5%). There were significant differences in woody IAPs distribution across different land use types, with more than half (54%) found in the residential areas compared to road verges (32%) and public urban green spaces (14%). Some socio-economic and environmental predictors such as town population, mean temperature, unemployment rate, and Gross domestic product (GDP) showed significant and positive correlations with woody IAPs species richness and density. Our findings suggest an uneven spatial distribution and diversity of woody IAPs across the different small towns, suburbs, and land use types in the region. It is recommended that small towns in South Africa need financial and human resources support to effectively manage IAPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study seeks to address the gap in knowledge regarding the varying effects of vegetation on human perception and preference, and to comprehend how green spaces can better serve community needs. The research assessed the impact of different vegetation structures on physiological responses during two types of on-site perceptions: sitting and walking, in both winter and summer. The green spaces included single-layer grassland, single-layer woodland, tree-shrub-grass composite woodlands, and tree-grass composite woodlands, and a non-vegetated square. The findings indicated the following. (1) The physiological recovery effect of walking in green spaces is relatively greater than that of sitting; walking in green spaces with different vegetation types was found to enhance participants' pNN50 values (p = 0). (2) During the summer, sitting and observing provided a better physiological recovery effect (p < 0.05), whereas in the winter, walking was more beneficial (p < 0.05). (3) Green spaces with vegetation were more beneficial for physiological recovery than the non-vegetated square, which could not sustain recovery effects for more than 1 min. Single-layer grassland and tree-shrub-grass composite woodlands had the most significant physiological recovery effects on health (p < 0.01). (4) Based on these conclusions, it is suggested that a combination of sitting and walking can lead to improved recovery outcomes. Therefore, when visiting parks during extreme weather conditions, individuals should adjust the duration of their sitting and walking experiences to enhance their overall experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green spaces are key aspects of urban ecology. The current study aims to estimate temporal changes in green spaces of Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority, and also to investigate the tree community structure of three selected green patches. Change detection analysis of identified green spaces was done by comparing the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) maps of satellite images from 2022 with those from 1972. NDVI maps were classified into three threshold categories: no vegetation (NV), moderate vegetation (MV), and high vegetation (HV). The results show changes in the area of selected green patches as well as NV, MV, and HV regions between 1972 and 2022. The tree community structure in the three selected patches indicates a low diversity of plant species. The result of the current study prioritizes patch-wise management of urban green spaces in Guwahati city with the help of both remotely sensed and ground data. Thus, the present study can significantly contribute to plant community conservation and management of urban green spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global human population was 8 billion in 2022 and it is projected to reach 9 billion by 2031, leading to a significant shift in environmental issues with a decline in biodiversity. We need to develop people-centred cities by 2050, since two-thirds of the total population is going to live in urban areas. Cities grow by urbanization of villages. As the cities grow, biodiversity is challenged. India is the second country in the world, next only to Brazil, where green cover is being significantly lost due to deforestation. Gomalas are the lands in the villages reserved for grazing by animals and serve as a lung space for humans when the villages are urbanized. It is time to act to maintain greenery of the gomalas for sustenance of lives in the urban environment. Maintenance of green cover with biodiversity is essential for sustenance of life. We have nearly 1.75 million species on our planet and many more are yet to be discovered. Biodiversity has continued to decline during the past two decades. Nearly 58% of vertebrates and 51% of freshwater species are now extinct and acceleration of extinction of 1,000-10,000 species is predicted during the next decade due to anthropogenic activities. The World Environmental Day theme for 2024 is to 'Protect, preserve and prosper for a greener future' for all on the planet with living and non-living systems in our environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article illustrates how historical cartographic sources can be analysed using a Geographical Information System to identify green spaces in London with a bombsite genesis in order to enhance the understanding of how the Blitz acted as a catalyst for greening the capital. It describes how temporary wartime green space creation and a desire to memorialise using parks and gardens gave way to ambitious plans to weave hundreds of acres of new green space into London’s urban fabric after the Second World War. The policies of London’s local government show how bomb-damaged land was specifically earmarked as the nuclei around which new green spaces could be assembled to address long-standing deficiencies in open space provision. The analysis of post-war green spaces in the present-day London Borough of Southwark using a Geographical Information System, alongside case studies of Leathermarket Gardens and Burgess Park, illustrates how digital mapping combined with archival research can reveal the processes and policies used by the municipal authorities to assemble new green spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In anthropogenic islands as urban parks, the fern species richness and composition may be determined ecologically by the quality of habitat, including area greenness, or biogeographically by area size. As the development of the theory of island biogeography also includes man-made parks, it is feasible to test whether area-species relationship applies in these urban parks, and is more pronouncedly evident compared to another ecological factor, such as NDVI. Total species number and composition of 8 urban parks in a kecamatan (subdistrict) in Tegal Regency were collected and arranged in clustering methods to understand the similarity between parks. The similarity analysis result is important for the management of the parks in Slawi. The species richness data is subsequently tested using Pearson correlation and regression against NDVI and area sizes. The relation between NDVI and species richness is nonsignificant (p=0.058), while area size and species richness is significant (p=0.003). This signifies that the urban fern species richness is determined by area as biogeographical factor, compared to NDVI as ecological factor. This result is important for the purpose of designing and managing urban parks as evidently size is important in the effort of attracting native biodiversity into urban parks and in turn enhancing the well-being of urban population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global and South African populations continue to increase exponentially, with large flows of persons into urban centres. Urban air quality and bioaerosol are therefore becoming an increasingly important consideration in the face of a growing burden of allergic respiratory diseases. More than 20% of South Africans have asthma, with morbidity being disproportionately high compared to high-income countries (HICs). Air pollutants (particularly particulate matter and ozone), pollen and fungal spores are known triggers and exacerbating factors in asthma and, alarmingly, the levels of air pollutants remain high in hotspot areas despite robust air-quality legislation in South Africa. The concern is that genetically and environmentally vulnerable children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as South Africa will have asthma triggered and exacerbated disproportionately by poor air quality. Urban green areas are increasingly being recognised by many stakeholders as important possible mitigation tools. However, multiple factors must be considered for having an optimal green space design. In this review, we bring together experts across the fields of health, air quality and aerobiology to outline the intersection between asthma and air quality and/or aerobiology in South Africa. We highlight the importance of careful multidisciplinary green space design as a possible healing tonic. We conclude that detailed studies combining air quality, pollen dispersal and health issues are needed to derive more precise exposure--response functions of the green spaces in South Africa and other LMICs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the intricate relationship between urban density and social sustainability by examining the impacts of both physical and perceived density on key social sustainability criteria. Physical density is defined by measurable attributes such as building height, spacing, and population. Perceived density, on the other hand, is shaped by residents' subjective experiences influenced by visual, functional, social, and spatial factors. This study analyzes data from the literature using the thematic analysis method. It reveals that social sustainability can be negatively affected by increased density, depending on how residents perceive high density. Key factors such as building design, green spaces, availability of amenities, and street layout are crucial in shaping residents' perceptions of density. These perceptions, in turn, affect inclusivity, community engagement, quality of life, cultural diversity, and social cohesion within urban areas. The research highlights the importance of integrating green spaces, public areas, and community amenities to mitigate negative perceptions of density and enhance overall quality of life. The findings suggest that achieving social sustainability requires a nuanced understanding of both physical and perceived density. This paper provides a comprehensive framework for understanding these complex relationships and offers valuable insights for creating socially sustainable urban environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most serious negative factor for life, and even more so for human recreation in urban conditions, is urban noise, the level of which has increased significantly recently. The city of Bryansk is also an exception - the administrative center of the Non-Chernozem region of the Russian Federation, in which a large number of parks squares, and forest parks are concentrated. The evaluation of the physical characteristics of the main noise sources forming the noise regime and the averaged sample values of noise on the streets of Bryansk is quite relevant. The study considers the condition of green spaces located near highways of citywide significance, streets of district significance and residential, as well as the ability of green spaces to absorb noise. The permissible sound level at the calculated points was determined and compared with the regulatory criteria. The characteristics of the strips of green spaces with the most effective noise protection are revealed.

The literature considers urban green spaces as a key to promoting physical activity and health. Despite the increasingly recognized walking exercise promotion benefits of urban green spaces, the relationship between walking exercise preferences and green space layout remains unclear. We extracted preferred routes for walking exercise and measured the route heat using a one-year shared data of walking exercise from a mobile outdoor assistant app in the old city of Fuzhou, China. We then evaluated green space layout features within a 500-m buffer zone along the preferred routes in dimensions of scale, form, and function. The relationship between the route heat and green space layout features was analyzed using a series of poisson regression models, with the influence of urban morphology and the built environment allocation being controlled. Results showed that there existed a significant association between preferred routes for walking exercise and the combination of green space layout, urban morphology, and the built environment allocation; the route heat had positive associations with NDVI and comprehensive park area density, and showed negative associations with patch shape index and patch density. This study illustrates the necessity for targeted intervention strategies to promote the development of walkable and healthy urban areas.

Pakistan has experienced significant urbanization, characterized by rapid urban population growth and unplanned urban expansion, making it the most urbanized country in South Asia. This study focuses on Lahore, the secondlargest megacity of Pakistan, and evaluates land cover changes over the last three decades (1990-2020). It also analyzes the relationship between urban green landscapes and unregulated urban expansion. The study reveals significant changes in the ecology of Lahore’s urban landscape using Landsat imagery, including Landsat 5 TM, Landsat 8 OLI, and a 30m spatial resolution, along with population data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. In particular, the study reveals a decline in urban green spaces and a significant expansion of urban built-up areas in Lahore. The annual urban area expansion rates were 24.2 km2 (1990- 2000), 12.1 km2 (2000-2010), and 26.4 km2 (2010-2020), while vegetation cover decreased 33.45 km2 (1990-2000), 20 km2 (2000-2010) in the first two decades but slightly increased from 2010 to 2020 at an annual rate of 14.17 km2. As a result, there is a serious concern about the rapid decline of green space in Lahore. It is recommended that the administrative authorities follow the World Health Organization’s guidelines regarding the need for green spaces. This study contributes to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 11th, indicator 11.3.1, and provides guidelines for conserving natural, social, and economic resources in the face of rapid urbanization.

Urban green spaces (UGS) are vital for the quality of life in cities. However, managing these spaces in metropolitan areas is increasingly challenging. There is a critical gap regarding the specific challenges and strategies employed by municipalities of varying sizes in emerging economies. Most existing research focuses on developed countries, leaving a void in understanding how these economies manage UGS under different constraints. This study delves into the challenges and strategies associated with managing UGS in the metropolitan region of São Paulo (MRSP), Brazil, comparing the experiences of the municipalities to provide empirical evidence that can inform policy making and urban planning practices in similar contexts. A structured questionnaire was distributed to environmental departments across 39 municipalities in MRSP. The survey included questions on population size, priority given to UGS, challenges faced and strategies adopted to overcome barriers. Chi-square tests were used to analyze the association between municipality size and the identified challenges and strategies. This study found that larger municipalities face significant barriers related to high population density and land use conflicts, which are less pronounced in smaller municipalities. However, strategies adopted to manage UGS were similar across all municipalities. Policy makers should focus on promoting vertical green spaces, expanding urban greening programs, and ensuring equitable resource allocation. Public–private partnerships and community involvement in planning processes are crucial for sustainable UGS management. Integrating UGS policies with broader urban development plans is essential for creating cohesive urban environments. Further research should conduct comparative studies across multiple metropolitan regions in different countries to provide a more comprehensive understanding of UGS management globally. This study integrates insights from urban ecology, landscape architecture, and public policy, emphasizing the interdisciplinary approach required for effective UGS management. The findings offer practical guidance for urban planners and landscape architects to design sustainable urban landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adapting urban spaces to the impacts of climate change is one of today's key challenges, especially when it comes to avoiding the associated social trade-offs which are often overlooked in planning and policy regulation. Based on a review of existing policy and legal documents from Vienna, we analyse how mitigation of green gentrification is already included in Viennese urban planning and policy, and how the administration tries to manage it strategically. Results show that while risks are generally limited, current policy and planning strategies show no awareness of the emerging risks of green gentrification as unintended consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increase in population and commercial development, urban development has led to a decrease in natural vegetation and an increase in solid surfaces, which negatively affect the environment. Maintaining green spaces in cities is emerging as a critical intervention for improving living conditions. This research, conducted in Thessaloniki, revealed that citizens face problems in using green space, which needs to be addressed. Through questionnaires distributed online, we examined citizens' concerns about urban green space, including the peri-urban forest of Thessaloniki and its cities. The need for regeneration and new green networks is highlighted, as well as the importance of citizen participation in the management of these spaces at the local level. The analysis of the data results in proposals for action, including the regeneration of green spaces, their interconnection with cycle paths and pedestrian walkways, and the creation of a network of applications to inform citizens. These proposals are important for improving the environment and enhancing sustainability in urban development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green spaces provide a significant platform for urban residents to interact with nature. They have been known as an essential pillar of a sustainable urban environment. However, the distance between man and his natural nature is increasing continuously due to rapid urbanization and population growth, leading to air pollution, diminishing green spaces, and heightening the stress among big city dwellers. Lahore, a bustling metropolis, faces such challenges of unbalanced urban development conditions and natural environments, which are crucial for human health and well-being. Therefore, this study was organized to measure the efficiency of human–environment interaction for human health in Lahore and suggest a nature-based solution for urban planning and development. For this, a field survey was conducted, and 1050 residents of Lahore were examined using a questionnaire. After that, the study analyzed the role of nature in human health using regression analysis in MS Excel and SMART PLS. It was found that nature is significantly working as medicine for (Physical Well-Being; β = 0.817, R2 = 0.668 at p < 0.000) and (Mental Well-being; β = 0.822, R2 = 0.675 at p < 0.000) human health. The significant role of nature in green spaces was analyzed for visitors' physical and mental health. It was concluded that green spaces are significant platforms for the natural environment that provide a nature-based solution for human and environmental health. Ultimately, the findings of the study reinforce the critical necessity to preserve green spaces for nature-based solutions through future urban planning and development within accessible range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Landscape change affects biological diversity and the distribution of species traits related to spiritual, educational, and recreational benefits people derive from nature. These traits are associated with color, song and behavioral characteristics that influence people's perceptions of how attractive an assemblage is. However, the environmental variables that affect the spatial distribution of traits related to the attractiveness of biological diversity remain unexplored. Objectives: We tested how landscape structure influences patterns of perceived bird attractiveness (trait diversity associated with colorfulness, behavioral and song categories) across an urbanization gradient. Methods: We used data from standardized surveys of birds and landscapes within 42 landscape units of 1km2 across the city of Brisbane in eastern Australia. We used structural equation modeling to test effects of landscape composition (built infrastructure, percentage of tree cover) and landscape configuration (fragmentation of tree cover) on mean bird community attractiveness. Relationships between individual traits and landscape structure were analyzed using multinomial logistic regression models. Results: Our analysis across 82 bird species shows that the relative amount of built infrastructure in a landscape interacts with fragmentation to reduce the overall attractiveness of the landscape’s bird assemblage. However, built areas can exhibit high overall bird attractiveness where there is (1) reduced fragmentation and (2) increased diversity of vegetation structure that provides key habitats for many colorful species with a high diversity of calls. Relationships between bird attractiveness and landscape structure change when they are analyzed at the guild level (insectivores vs frugivores/nectarivores). In addition, body size moderates the effects of landscape structure on song complexity, personality, and color. Conclusions: Small bodied, colorful and melodious species are negatively affected by built infrastructure and fragmentation. By learning how habitat loss and fragmentation affect the distribution of species-rich, attractive bird assemblages, our findings can inform how urban landscapes might be structured to increase people’s connection with nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Often called a ‘Garden city’, Bengaluru is renowned for its green infrastructure. However, the association of human wellbeing with the amount of tree cover (as an example of green infrastructure), degree of urbanization, and local people's socio-demographics has not been explored. Objective: We investigated how human wellbeing is related to the amount of tree cover at household and neighborhood levels, the degree of urbanity, and underlying social factors among respondents. Methods: The study was conducted in 61 towns along the rural–urban gradient of Bengaluru, surveying 836 respondents in total. Data on multiple dimensions of respondents’ wellbeing was collected between December 2016 and May 2017. The percentage of tree cover at the household and neighborhood levels was obtained based on WorldView-3 images. Logistic regression models were applied to assess correlations between human wellbeing and tree cover. Kruskal–Wallis tests, Mann–Whitney tests, and cross tabulation with chi-square tests were conducted to investigate relations of human wellbeing with the degree of urbanity, and with social factors. Results: We found that several variables of human wellbeing were positively associated with tree cover. Measures of wellbeing also differed along the rural–urban gradient and among social groups. Conclusions: Though urbanization is often considered to promote material wellbeing, non-material aspects (e.g., community activities and social relationships) are also important components of overall human wellbeing in urbanizing landscapes. Holistic interactions among natural, spatial, and social factors should be considered while designing interventions for equitable urban landscapes that promote human wellbeing and ecological restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe current evidence base for outdoor and nature-based education in a context of education for sustainability is limited and unrepresentative of the realities of small, urban schools, which tend to be characterised by small outdoor spaces devoid of nature. To address this research gap, we carried out two studies in Malta, as an example of a densely populated and heavily urbanised context. A survey conducted among educators in Maltese primary schools explored the occurence and frequency of outdoor teaching and factors that influence attitudes, perceptions, and practice of outdoor teaching. A complementary study mapped built, hard and soft landscapes of all primary school footprints in Malta. The two studies converge to shed light on possible systemic or physical factors leading to a low incidence of outdoor teaching and in particular, of nature-based teaching in small, urban schools. Nonetheless, our findings show strong interest in such teaching approaches amongst study participants. Our study thus establishes a research priority to identify factors that could support outdoor teaching in such contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of urban orchids and their phorophytes is essential for conservation and education initiatives in these areas. The objective of this study was to assess the diversity of epiphytic orchids and identify their phorophytes at Postgraduate College Campus Córdoba (CPCC) and Paso Coyol Ecological Park (PEPC) in order to better understand the differences in their composition. The hypothesis was that the diversity of naturally established orchids would be higher in the less urbanized area, while the phorophytes would be mostly introduced trees. Orchids growing on phorophytes of the garden area (12 000 m²) of both sites were quantified from November 2019 to December 2021. The origin (endemic, native, or exotic) of the orchids and their phorophytes were determined. Simpson and Shannon-Weaver diversity indices were applied, and Whittaker curves were developed. A total of 13 419 orchid individuals were recorded, divided into 31 species, with 26 species reported in the CPCC and 17 in the PEPC. The Simpson and Shannon-Weaver indices showed that the diversity of epiphytic orchids was higher in the CPCC (1-D = 0.78) than in the PEPC (1-D = 0.41). In contrast, species dominance was lower in the CPCC (H = 2.6) than in the PEPC (H = 1.16). Whittaker curves showed that Catasetum integerrimum was the most abundant species in the CPPC and Platystele stenostachya in the PEPC. The CPCC had a greater level of diversity. Fifteen species of phorophytes were recorded in the CPCC and 10 in the PEPC, with a predominance of exotic species, while introduced species accounted for 70 % of the phorophytes found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aims to unearth the influence of major factors of Indoor(Green Spaces and Green Ambient Atmospherics) and Outdoor Green Atmospherics on employee well-being in Indian 5-star hotels. Responses were obtained from 328 employees in the Indian tourism sector using a non-probabilistic purposive sampling method. A partial least-square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was applied for the analysis. The findings revealed that green indoor and outdoor atmospherics have a significant positive contribution toward the well-being and enhanced work environment among the workforce with work stress being a significantly negative mediator. The findings contribute to the existing studies as it empirically verify the hypothesized relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is critical that urban densification is accepted as a planning strategy for enhanced, sustainable urban development, especially considering the compacting of urban areas, integrated land uses, reduced land take and the need to conserve urban green spaces. Nevertheless, its implementation has challenged the management of urban green spaces. Densification has created a dilemma in planning as planners battle to provide better green spaces, while simultaneously implementing urban densification projects. This study explores the persistent challenges and opportunities of urban densification in intermediate African cities, using a case study of Umhlanga in the eThekwini Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The study used a mixed method approach, using questionnaires, unstructured interviews and field observations. The results indicated that urban growth in intermediate towns is dominated by horizontal expansion, despite introducing urban densification policies, which has proved detrimental to ecological conservation. Furthermore, embarking on growth that integrates various land uses is increasingly enhancing those towns' resilience and slowing down urban sprawl. This study shows that transformation in urban planning is essential in integrating ecological conservation in densification projects. Urban densification should not be treated in isolation but involve multiple city stakeholders in several city departments to achieve a broad range of goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People's reduced connection with nature has led to many health problems. In the NBS framework, urban wildscapes (UWSs) are considered an important solution. They can contribute to improving the health of residents and ecosystems within the city. However, overly wild green spaces may also be offensive to residents. It is necessary to understand the public's acceptance of UWSs. Current studies on the acceptance of UWSs have used vague terms to generalize the "wildness degree". In this study, we attempted to quantify the degree of wildness using plant height and plant abundance in Japan and analyzed the results through mediated effect analysis. We discovered the following: 1. Japanese residents have low acceptance of UWSs in vacant lots. 2. The use of "height" and "abundance" may be a more objective way to quantify wildness. 3. The negative effects of abundance can be minimized. The negative effect of height cannot be controlled. This study addresses a gap in the study of Asian cities and proposes a novel approach to quantifying "wildness." It improves the health benefits of UWSs. Furthermore, it can offer guidance on the management and construction of urban green spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the framework of place attachment we explore how green spaces contribute to life satisfaction in a context of high emigration rates. We propose that green spaces affect life satisfaction of the population through the mediation of physical health and mental health, and this relationship is moderated by migration willingness. We conducted our study in March–April 2021 in the city of Tirana, Albania. Using physical and mental health indicators, our results demonstrate that urban green spaces directly and indirectly affect life satisfaction. The mediators with the highest impact on life satisfaction are psychological distress and well-being. Green space exposure plays a role in influencing health outcomes, but the relationship is not moderated by migration willingness, and it shows a higher impact on participants with better mental health. Designing more and improved urban green spaces is a pathway to positively affect the health and well-being of urban populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the costs of development, maintenance and replacement of green spaces may help in effective planning and development of green spaces. However, traditional methods to ascertain the costs of the same are complex and requires many data and expertise. The objective of study was to develop a mathematical model for estimating the cost of green space investment in residential areas of Dar es Salaam City, Tanzania using structured questionnaires for data collection. The study revealed that the investment cost of green spaces was influenced by income of the households, age of green space, area covered by green space, green space type and settlement where the household resides. The mean calculated from the model looked lower by 0.1% implying that the model can best predict the overall mean of investment cost by 99.9%. The model can be used to estimate the economic value of green spaces in data scarce situations for various purposes like compensation and property valuation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban green spaces contribute to improving people's physical and mental health by reducing levels of stress and anxiety. Marginalized communities in the USA experience poor health outcome in part because of health disparities related to social and structural determinants of health. The purpose of this study is to assess the prospective role of Kellogg Park, a newly built community park in a marginalized community in California, in enhancing residents' physical and mental health. The researchers collected the data by conducting an in-person survey, which covered questions related to environmental and safety perceptions, overall satisfaction, changes in physical activity changes and mental health with respondents' pre- and post-occupancy experiences. For analyzing data, bivariate analyses using a t-test and a correlation analysis were conducted to examine if there was a relationship between the overall satisfaction and visiting experience. The results indicated an increased positive environmental perception. Besides, respondents reported positively to questions of safety and their overall satisfaction. This research yielded positive results, indicating an improvement in the respondents' physical activity changes and mental health after the construction of the park. The results will advocate for and assist planners, designers, and policy-makers in prioritizing green spaces in marginalized communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green spaces function as integral communal areas facilitating interaction and nurturing a collective sense of community. Removing such green spaces ultimately limits the opportunities for physical activity and outdoor recreation, creating more sedentary lifestyles and a decrease in social connection. This study offers a comprehensive investigation of the benefits of green spaces for communal well-being (i.e. social well-being and overall life satisfaction) within the urban context of Lahore. The study is based on Murray Bookchin's social ecology principles and aims to understand how people may interact with their social and physical surroundings. Such research is driven by the increasing trend of urban built-up expansion, which poses considerable risk for green spaces. To achieve this objective, a field survey was conducted using a simple random sampling technique in which 1050 respondents were examined with the help of a structured questionnaire. After collecting and screening the data, the study performed regression analysis utilizing R software to compute the services of green spaces for the community, which found significant trends (e.g. Social Well-Being; R2 = 0.56 and Life Satisfaction; R2 = 0.59) statistically. Similarly, a structural model was formulated to deduce the services of green spaces for communal well-being. The analysis reveals a significant relationship (β = 0.717, R2 = 0.632, at P < 0.00), reinforcing the substantial influence of green spaces on communal well-being. As a result, the findings and conclusion of the study suggest that green spaces are crucial to the community well-being of Lahore, and steps should be taken to ensure their sustainability and preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth of a city causes a complex of problems related to the increase in the pollution of the urban environment and the shortcomings in its improvement. The territory of the modern city is characterized by the highest man-made loads on the natural environment. The main problems are the low level of green areas, as well as the reduction in trees in many areas, which does not allow the city residents to live comfortably. Currently, Earth remote sensing methods using the vegetation index (NDVI) are one of the dominant means of assessing the condition. In this regard, the purpose of this study is to assess the ecological condition of the green zone in the city of Aktobe. To solve this problem, complex assessment was carried out, including statistical data analysis and the processing of satellite images by calculation of the NDVI for green areas and their mapping. The article analysis lies in the field of development and landscaping of the urban environment of Aktobe. A description of the current state of the system of green areas in the city was provided. On the basis of the data of remote sensing of the earth, the spatial features of the separate classes of the total phytomass of green plants within the city of Aktobe and the spatial features of the territorial zones of the city were determined during the differentiation of green plantings. A study of the dynamics of changes in the vegetation cover index (NDVI) during 2010, 2016, and 2023 allowed us to identify trends in the development of green spaces and their changes over time due to city growth and other factors. The data obtained as a result of the research can be used in the justification of urban planning decisions, landscape planning of the ecological infrastructure of the city, and optimization of landscaping systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban green spaces are central components of urban ecosystems, providing refuge for wildlife while helping ‘future proof’ cities against climate change. Conversion of urban green spaces to artificial turf has become increasingly popular in various developed countries, such as the UK, leading to reduced urban ecosystem services delivery. To date, there is no established satellite remote sensing method for reliably detecting and mapping artificial turf expansion at scale. We here assess the combined use of very high-resolution multispectral satellite imagery and classical, open source, supervised classification approaches to map artificial lawns in a typical British city. Both object-based and pixel-based classifications struggled to reliably detect artificial turf, with large patches of artificial turf not being any more reliably identified than small patches of artificial turf. As urban ecosystems are increasingly recognised for their key contributions to human wellbeing and health, the poor performance of these standard methods highlights the urgency of developing and applying new, easily accessible approaches for the monitoring of these important ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers the relationship between biophilia and well-being in a sample of users of urban green spaces in the city of Porto (Portugal) as a case study. The biophilia hypothesis is explored through the responses of 131 participants in a survey. Users of urban green spaces valued their provision of quiet and shade, with a high diversity of plant species and tranquillity. The survey also found that being satisfied with urban green spaces enhances self-perceived health status, which means that being satisfied with a green space that fulfils users' expectations can be a way to improve well-being in urban areas. Creating stimulating regenerative urban green spaces offers the possibility to experience significant connections to nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Near-sightedness, or myopia, is becoming more prevalent worldwide, but its etiopathogenesis is not fully understood. This review examines the potential protective role of green spaces in reducing myopia prevalence among children and adolescents, based on recent epidemiological studies from various countries. The studies consistently used the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) to quantify green space exposure. The analysis reveals a significant inverse relationship between exposure to green space and the risk of developing myopia, across multiple studies. For example, a 0.1 increase in NDVI within various buffer zones around schools was associated with a 6.3–8.7% reduction in myopia prevalence. Higher residential greenness within a 100-meter buffer around homes was linked to a 38% reduction in the risk of developing myopia among preschool children. The protective effect was observed across different age groups, from preschoolers to high school students. Urban planning factors, such as the size, connectivity, and aggregation of green spaces, also influenced myopia risk. These findings suggest that increasing access to green spaces in urban environments may be an effective strategy for myopia prevention, with important implications for public health and urban planning policies.

In many parts of the world, urban green spaces are being explored as a source of ecosystem services. Their role in the provision of regulation of and, support of ecosystem services and even in the provision of cultural services is considered. At the same time, species assessment of the composition and vital condition of trees that provide ecosystem benefits in an urbanized environment is becoming increasingly relevant. The purpose of this study was to assess the contribution of the most common species of woody plants in urban greening to the provision of ecosystem services. The research was carried out in Yoshkar-Ola, in different functional areas of the city: residential, recreational and industrial, where the assortment of trees was studied and their vital condition was assessed. For the most common tree species, the potential supply of providing ecosystem services was determined on a ten-point scale, taking into account adverse effects (so-called «ecosystem disservices»). It was established that Betula pendula, Tilia cordata, Sorbus aucuparia were the predominant species in the landscaping of the city, their share in the studied plantings reached 36–64%. Of the introduced species, Acer negundo, Picea pungens, and Thuja occidentalis are the most common in the landscaping of the city. Most of the trees of different functional zones belonged to the 1st and 2nd categories of life condition (healthy and with signs of slight oppression). Strongly weakened trees accounted for no more than 12% of the total number, and dying plants were rare. Betula pendula makes a significant contribution to the provision of ecosystem services in Yoshkar-Ola. Tilia cordata, Picea pungens and Sorbus aucuparia – do so mainly due to their high carbon storage capacity, phytoncide and aesthetic value. Acer negundo is considered to be a dangerous urban explerent and, despite its regulating and maintaining ecosystem services, its distribution in the urban environment should be limited.

Abstract Background Exposure to green spaces has been suggested to improve mental health and may reduce the risk of depression. However, there is generally limited evidence on the association between green spaces and depression originating from low-and middle-income countries and Africa in particular. Here, we investigate the association between proximity to public green spaces and depressive symptoms among residents of Gauteng Province, South Africa. Methods We used data from the 2017/2018 Gauteng quality of life survey. We included all individuals aged 18 years or older residing in the nine municipalities of Gauteng Province that completed the survey (n = 24,341). Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-2. Proximity to public green spaces was defined as self-reported walking time (either less or greater than 15 min) from individuals’ homes to the nearest public green space. To assess the association between access to public green spaces and depressive symptoms, we used mixed-effects models, adjusted for age, sex, population group (African, Indian/Asian, Coloured (mixed race), and White), educational attainment, and municipality. We additionally performed stratified analyses by age, sex, educational attainment, and population group to evaluate whether associations differed within subgroups. Associations are expressed as prevalence ratios (PR) and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results We observed a 6% (PR = 0.94, 95%CI = 0.92–0.96) prevalence reduction in depressive symptoms for individuals who reported that the nearest public green space was less than 15 min from their homes as compared to those who reported > 15 min. After stratification, this inverse association was stronger among females, individuals aged 35–59 years,those with higher levels of educational attainment, and Coloured individuals as compared to their counterparts. Conclusion Our findings suggest that public green spaces close to residential homes may be associated with a reduction in the occurrence of depressive symptoms among urban populations in resource-constrained settings like South Africa.

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted society and raised concerns about the well-being of older adults. Today, many people have abandoned ‘pandemic protocols’ but questions remain about the pandemic's longer term impacts on older adults. We used digitally mediated photovoice to explore older adults’ well-being in the context of their everyday lives, early in the pandemic and again two years later. Nine apartment-dwelling older adults who lived in high-density neighbourhoods in Vancouver, Canada participated in our study. We holistically considered how five dimensions of well-being were interrelated to shape experiences: material, relational, subjective, psychological, and environmental. We explored positive and negative aspects of these dimensions in relation to two key themes: (i) negotiating comfort, purpose and confinement at home, and (ii) navigating neighbourhood places amidst pandemic disruptions. Material resources to meet one's needs (e.g., communication technology, hobbies) and access to public and private greenspaces were assets. However, some participants experienced increased barriers to maintaining the five overlapping dimensions of well-being we examined; these participants viewed their homes negatively, and engaged less with their neighbourhoods over time. We emphasize how older adults’ well-being during the pandemic was a dynamic and, at times, precarious process. Understanding how interrelated dimensions shape older adult well-being might ultimately inform practices and policies that promote age-friendly cities.

People with lower subjective socioeconomic status are more prone to experiencing anxiety and poorer subjective well-being. Nature's restorative ability can play an important role among this group, given that spending time outdoors is often associated with better overall mental health and well-being. In this study, we aim to explore the moderating effect of recent visits to green and blue natural spaces on the mediated relationship between subjective socioeconomic status, anxiety and subjective well-being. A nationally representative sample of 946 Portuguese respondents was recruited. Results showed that anxiety mediated the relationship between subjective socioeconomic status and subjective well-being. In addition, the mediation effect was weaker for those who visited natural spaces more frequently, suggesting that spending time in nature buffers against the anxiety associated with lower subjective socioeconomic status from translating into poorer subjective well-being. These findings highlight the importance of using nature as a cost-effective strategy to assist in mitigating the negative effects of low subjective socioeconomic status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International sharing of cohort data for research is important and challenging. We explored the feasibility of multicohort federated analyses by examining associations between 3 pregnancy exposures (maternal education, exposure to green vegetation, and gestational diabetes) and offspring body mass index (BMI) from infancy to age 17 years. We used data from 18 cohorts (n  = 206,180 mother-child pairs) from the EU Child Cohort Network and derived BMI at ages 0–1, 2–3, 4–7, 8–13, and 14–17 years. Associations were estimated using linear regression via 1-stage individual participant data meta-analysis using DataSHIELD. Associations between lower maternal education and higher child BMI emerged from age 4 and increased with age (difference in BMI z score comparing low with high education, at age 2–3 years = 0.03 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.00, 0.05), at 4–7 years = 0.16 (95% CI: 0.14, 0.17), and at 8–13 years = 0.24 (95% CI: 0.22, 0.26)). Gestational diabetes was positively associated with BMI from age 8 years (BMI z score difference = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.25) but not at younger ages; however, associations attenuated towards the null when restricted to cohorts that measured gestational diabetes via universal screening. Exposure to green vegetation was weakly associated with higher BMI up to age 1 year but not at older ages. Opportunities of cross-cohort federated analyses are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green spaces have been associated with a wide range of health benefits in adults, including mental health; however, there are relatively limited data about the relationship between exposure to natural environment and children's and adolescents' mental health, and particularly depression. The aim of this review was to synthesise and discuss the literature regarding the effect of the natural environment on preventing depression among children and adolescents and also to identify potential mediating factors. Based on most studies, exposure to green spaces, especially in urban environments, was shown to contribute to the prevention of depression among children and adolescents. Specifically, increased exposure to greenery was shown to reduce by 6% to 11% the risk of depression in children and adolescents, and this association was more powerful in urban areas with higher population density. High levels of exposure to green spaces during childhood were also significantly associated with a lower risk of depression in later life with the risk of subsequent mental illness for individuals who lived in areas with low levels of greenery during childhood being 55% higher than for those who lived in areas with higher green coverage. However, above associations were not confirmed across studies, and findings regarding potential mediating factors were inconsistent. This review has shown high heterogeneity of the identified studies, using different samples, both in size, age and participants' characteristics, different outcome measures and different tools for estimating outcome measures. Further research is needed to investigate the impact of the natural environment on preventing depression in the case of children and adolescents, while future studies need to utilize similar participant criteria and common outcome measures and instruments, to allow for comparison of the findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the relationship between urban green spaces and residents' mental health, specifically focusing on the role of physical exercise as a mediator. These findings have important implications for urban planning, public health policy, and individual health promotion. This study utilised a cross-sectional design and included 2647 participants from the 2021 China General Social Survey (CGSS 2021), with an average age of (51.34±17.57) years. The study employed the instruments from CGSS 2021 to examine participants' perception of urban green spaces, physical exercise status, and mental health. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 21.0 and Stata 12.0. The analysis included Spearman's and Pearson's correlation methods, as well as multi-variable linear regression and mediation analysis. The study revealed a strong positive correlation between urban green spaces, physical exercise engagement, and the promotion of mental well-being. However, there was no statistically significant relationship found between the amount of urban green spaces and the frequency of exercise. Furthermore, after controlling for other variables, a significant positive correlation was found between the presence of urban green spaces and the mental well-being of the community. This relationship was partially mediated by physical exercise. The findings offer a scientific foundation for future urban planning, green space construction, and public health policy formulation. They also provide valuable references for enhancing residents' quality of life and promoting mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People have unique sets of direct sensory interactions with wild species, which change through their days, weeks, seasons, and lifetimes. Despite having important influences on their health and well‐being and their attitudes towards nature, these personalized ecologies remain surprisingly little studied and are poorly understood. However, much can be inferred about personalized ecologies by considering them from first principles (largely macroecological), alongside insights from research into the design and effectiveness of biodiversity monitoring programmes, knowledge of how animals respond to people, and studies of human biology and demography. Here I first review how three major sets of drivers, opportunity, capability and motivation, shape people's personalized ecologies. Second, I then explore the implications of these mechanisms for how more passively and more actively practical improvements can be made in people's personalized ecologies. Particularly in light of the declines in the richness of these ecologies that are being experienced in much of the world (the so‐called 'extinction of experience'), and the significant consequences, marked improvement in many people's interactions and experiences with nature may be key to the future of biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Record-breaking heat waves intensified by climate change pose both environmental and health threats, necessitating a balance between urban sustainability and well-being. Extreme heat and limited green space access are drivers of obesity prevalence, with decreased proximity to green spaces correlating with higher rates of obesity in nearby communities. In contrast, access to such green spaces fosters physical activity, well-being, and community cohesion, especially crucial in marginalized communities facing health disparities due to historical policies like redlining and underinvestment in social gathering spaces. Despite challenges, green space investment offers healthcare savings and environmental gains, necessitating a shift in perception towards viewing green spaces as essential for urban living. As heat waves persist, integrating health and sustainability in urban planning is paramount. Health and medical communities must play an active role in advocating for equitable access to urban green spaces, as they possess influential positions to address climate-related health disparities through localized advocacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study conducts the valuation of the urban Green Open Spaces (GOS) in Jakarta (Indonesia) using the life satisfaction approach (LSA). We integrated the important elements of the LSA, such as housing structure and environmental facilities, into a comprehensive valuation model (using hedonic variables). By explicitly acknowledging the limited application of these methodologies in developing nations, this study endeavors to provide a context-specific understanding of the economic value of GOS in Jakarta. The LSA model, a novel non-market valuation tool, employs community life satisfaction as its primary metric. In this study, we analyzed the satisfaction levels of residents of Jakarta based on a 10- point scale; the responses of a total of 1,592 participants were collected through online questionnaires in 2021 (during the pandemic). We considered various independent variables, including socioeconomic factors, housing attributes, environmental facilities, location amenities, and the presence of GOS. The analysis involved LSA and ordinary least squares (OLS) models in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The results indicate that several variables, such as longer residence duration, good employment status, high income “over 20 million Indonesian Rupiah (IDR); approximately USD 1281.56”, and access to more shopping centers, positively influenced the life satisfaction of the residents, which is in line with the studies conducted in western countries. Surprisingly, the economic evaluation of urban GOS portrayed a limited impact on the residents’ life satisfaction, while negative aspects, e.g., the presence of cemeteries around residential areas (19.1%), impacted the residents significantly. Urban parks did not portray statistical significance in influencing the residents’ life satisfaction, despite having a positive impact across all radii of urban regions. Urban forests exhibited a positive impact, mainly within the 100–500-m radius, with a significant impact on resident life satisfaction. Our attempt to assess the values of landscape amenities in Jakarta using LSA marks a pioneering effort in the field of environmental science with respect to community preferences. Consequently, this study contributes significantly to the evolving yet limited literature in this domain. The results differ from those of the Global North research, emphasizing the need for context-specific urban planning strategies. Our study offers valuable insights for urban planners and government entities and can guide GOS development to enhance urban sustainability and community satisfaction. The implications extend to urban centers in Indonesia and other developing countries, emphasizing the importance of optimizing limited urban spaces based on community preferences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The history of gardening and landscaping has historically been a male monopoly, and until the 20th century, women could not get anywhere near a career in these fields. This brief review focuses on some of the women who paved the way in Europe and the USA. It also attempts to tell some lesser-known stories, focusing on those who turned to gardening and landscaping, subjects that have been much less explored in floriculture. This review does not claim to be exhaustive, although it does attempt to draw attention to a historical period between the Victorian age and the present day. Women's significant contributions range from dissemination to teaching, research, education, association and popularization of gardening and landscaping. In this paper, we briefly discuss, in the 21st century, men and women who may have similarities in education and work experience, but these similarities do not lead to comparable careers or positions in academic departments. Some scientific studies that have an impact on the design and sustainable management of green spaces linked to ecosystem services are considered. Finally, the contribution of women in landscape architecture is briefly examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current research analyzes the efficacy of several green infrastructure components in reducing the urban heat island effect in Peshawar city, KPK. It focuses on three public squares that have different forms of GI. Lack of planning for urban open and green spaces have negatively impacted cities and resulted in poor life quality, hence these must be evaluated for intervention planning. By integrating Land Surface Temperature information with on-site observations, simulations, and vegetation maps, overall research direction was established. Research highlighted intricate interactions among many GI characteristics. The study enlightened that while grass alone provides only marginal cooling effects (0.4-0.8°C), strategically combining trees with creative fountain design may dramatically lower urban temperatures (up to 6°C) relative to neighboring regions. GI's contribution to UHI mitigation is enhanced by these research findings, which offer useful resources for urban planners and designers. Simulations and further evaluations are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Despite growing recognition of nature-based solutions (NBS), there remains a research gap in understanding their implementation in urban areas, which poses a significant challenge for urban forest development. Therefore, our paper aims to explore the intersection of NBS with urban forests (UF), identify current barriers, propose strategies to maximize the potential of urban forests as nature-based solutions (UF-NBS) in effectively improving the resilience of urban forests, and enhance the service capacity of urban forest ecosystems. To achieve our objective, we conducted a comprehensive analysis that included a bibliometric review to summarize the evolution of the UF-NBS literature and classify UF-NBS types for the first time. Subsequently, we identified and organized current challenges faced by UF-NBS. Additionally, we proposed an original technological framework system for urban forest development based on NBS principles. The results show the significance of UF-NBS for enhancing urban resilience and human wellbeing, with multiple successful implementations in both China and Europe, validating their effectiveness. However, the implementation of UF-NBS faces several challenges, including inadequate financing, the gap between scientific knowledge and practical implementation, the absence of region-specific information, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. This study contributes to establishing a scientific theoretical basis for integrating UF and NBS and provides a systematic approach for decision-makers in urban forest management. Future research should focus on exploring the integration of UF within the NBS framework and prioritize knowledge sharing, international cooperation, and education initiatives to promote the global adoption of UF-NBS and address pressing urban challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exposure to green spaces has been suggested to improve mental health and may reduce the risk of depression. However, there is generally limited evidence on the association between green spaces and depression originating from low-and middle-income countries and Africa in particular. Here, we investigate the association between proximity to public green spaces and depressive symptoms among residents of Gauteng Province, South Africa. Methods: We used data from the 2017/2018 Gauteng quality of life survey. We included all individuals aged 18 years or older residing in the nine municipalities of Gauteng Province that completed the survey (n = 24,341). Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-2. Proximity to public green spaces was defined as self-reported walking time (either less or greater than 15 min) from individuals' homes to the nearest public green space. To assess the association between access to public green spaces and depressive symptoms, we used mixed-effects models, adjusted for age, sex, population group (African, Indian/Asian, Coloured (mixed race), and White), educational attainment, and municipality. We additionally performed stratified analyses by age, sex, educational attainment, and population group to evaluate whether associations differed within subgroups. Associations are expressed as prevalence ratios (PR) and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results: We observed a 6% (PR = 0.94, 95%CI = 0.92–0.96) prevalence reduction in depressive symptoms for individuals who reported that the nearest public green space was less than 15 min from their homes as compared to those who reported > 15 min. After stratification, this inverse association was stronger among females, individuals aged 35–59 years,those with higher levels of educational attainment, and Coloured individuals as compared to their counterparts. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that public green spaces close to residential homes may be associated with a reduction in the occurrence of depressive symptoms among urban populations in resource-constrained settings like South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]