Green Infrastructure in urban areas
Author: Michaela Gensheimer
What is green infrastructure?
Green infrastructure (GI) has become prominent in spatial planning, policy and research over the last few decades. It is widely understood as a network of physical features that provides ecological, economic and social benefits to society through nature-based solutions (NBS), underpinning human well-being and quality of life.
Why is green infrastructure important for cities?
More and more cities struggle with the challenges of unsustainable urbanisation and related human health issues, degradation, and the loss of natural capital and the ecosystem services it provides. The creation, conservation and management of GI in urban areas can play a key role in addressing these developmental challenges. Potential benefits derived from GI include the mitigation of urban heat island effects, flood risk reduction, the absorption of CO2 (the emissions of which can be extensive), the provision of sustainable transport options (e.g. walking and cycling lanes), and generally improved mental health and well-being.