Green solutions for crisis: how urban green spaces enhance community health

Abstract

Urban green spaces (UGS) are vital for public health, especially during crises like the pandemic. While previous studies have explored the link between UGS utilisation and health, the complex interactions between UGS access, demographic factors, and health behaviours remain underexamined, particularly in Northwest China, where UGS are extremely shortage. This study, conducted in NW China’s core city - Lanzhou, investigates how the pandemic influenced public engagement with UGS and its subsequent effects on public well-being in three parks. We found that the pandemic spurred increased park visits, reflecting a heightened awareness of their health benefits, yet also exposed access inequalities, especially among those reliant on motor vehicles, and that proximity, commuting methods, and urban infrastructure significantly impact park usage, with frequent and prolonged visits correlating with improved health outcomes and higher willingness to pay (WTP) for parks, especially among younger, educated, and longtime locals. Conversely, increased travel time discourages engagement with UGS, highlighting the need for accessible green spaces. Notably, landscape characteristics like cohesion and patch density play a critical role in health benefits, with cohesive landscapes supporting more significant health improvements. Interestingly, even those with unhealthy habits, such as smoking and drinking, report substantial benefits from park use, suggesting the restorative power of nature. To enhance UGS accessibility and maximise health benefits, urban planners should focus on creating pedestrian-friendly environments, improving public transportation links, and incorporating health-promoting features in park designs. The findings call for urban planners to focus on enhancing accessibility, connectivity, and diversity in park designs, tailored to the unique needs of urban populations, making parks more inclusive and resilient spaces for all urban residents. This study provides critical insights into the role of urban parks during crises, offering guidance for urban planning and public health strategies in similar urban settings.