METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING THE BENEFITS ASSOCIATED WITH URBAN GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE AT DIFFERENT URBAN SCALES

Abstract

In the context of increased urbanization, urban green infrastructure (UGI) is an important tool for preserving the structure and functions of natural ecosystems and providing diverse benefits to the human population. The study of benefits is of high importance for the spatial and administrative planning of urban green infrastructures. The present analysis aims to understand the benefits associated with green infrastructures and to develop new possibilities for integrating green infrastructures into urban planning, using the municipality of Buzău as case study. In order to assess the distribution of UGIs in Buzău and to identify the benefits and services associated with them, 227 questionnaires were applied to local population. The case studies offer the possibility to provide concrete examples of current urban green infrastructures management practices. For the municipality of Buzău, the most desired elements of green infrastructure in the city is: parks and public gardens (94.20%), outdoor sports facilities (84.58%), street alignments (79.29%) and flower arrangements (55.06%). The involvement of the local community in the UGI planning process is a strong point, which should be integrated in the practices of local authorities and implemented effectively.