Evaluation of the Urban Green Infrastructure Using Landscape Modules, GIS and a Population Survey: Linking environmental with social aspects in studying and managing urban forests

Abstract

Modern cities have to reconcile the needs of the citizens for green areas considering the evolutionary trends of the city, especially in terms of growth and the required transformation in modern times. The present study attempts to analyze and evaluate the amount and distribution of the existing urban green space and the requirements of those green areas by the public. The green infrastructure of the city of Faro was evaluated with three methods: landscape assessment using modules, spatial assessment using GIS and social assessment using an urban population survey. This research provided indicators and thresholds to be included by policy makers in local regulations about green infrastructure of the city of Faro.