Modern Compact Cities: How Much Greenery Do We Need?

TLDR

Modern compact cities are high‑density, mixed‑use urban patterns that rely on ecosystem services and urban green space to support sustainability, yet there is debate over how much greenery individuals need. The study examines perceptions, use, quality, accessibility, and health risks of urban green and blue spaces, and evaluates new UGS and greenery‑related approaches for compact city design and wellbeing. Findings indicate that at least 9 m² of green space per person is required, with an ideal target of 50 m² per capita, and that current UGS availability provides essential insights for compact city planning.

Abstract

The modern compact city is identified as a high-density and mixed-use pattern. Its features are believed to contribute to a form of functional urban design that supports sustainability and, restresses, the importance of ecosystem services. Urban green space (UGS) plays a vital role in the design and impact on how compact cities have developed and triggered a scientific discord on the amount of greenery individuals require and to what extent contemporary approaches address the question. Research points to at least 9 m² of green space per individual with an ideal UGS value of 50 m² per capita. An examination on the perception, use, quality, accessibility and health risks of urban green and blue spaces is explored, alongside the availability of novel UGS and greenery-related approaches that investigate compact city design and planning for health and wellbeing. The amount of 'green' and relating UGS availability in cities indicates vital knowledge modern compact cities must consider.