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Urban Green–Blue Space Utilization and Public Perceptions Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: Insights from Northwest China

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  • Yuliang Wang

    (College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
    Research Institute for the Yellow River National Cultural Park, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China)

  • Feifei Li

    (College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China)

  • Dan Liu

    (Department of Geography, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77840, USA)

  • Zilong Zhang

    (College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
    Key Laboratory of Western China’s Environmental Systems (Ministry of Education), Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China)

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped our daily lives and the way we interact with urban green–blue spaces (UGBS), particularly in the economically challenged regions of Northwest China. Our study, utilizing surveys and social media, delves into the pandemic’s impact on UGBS engagement in this area, offering critical insights for urban planning amidst a global health crisis. We found a gender-balanced but preference-specific engagement in UGBS, with women and married couples in the Chengguan District of Lanzhou city showing affinity. Moreover, educational levels and proximity to academic institutions emerged as key factors influencing UGBS use, pointing to the importance of educational attainment in engagement diversity. Enhancing safety, creating child-friendly and leisure facilities for families, and designing vibrant spaces for socializing are vital, and placing UGBS near educational districts could also promote environmental awareness and scientific learning. Furthermore, the pandemic has reshaped public priorities, elevating the value of accessible, safe UGBS. This shift is evidenced by varied motivations for UGBS visits, with an emphasis on health, nature connectivity, and leisure. Women, older adults, and families, each with their distinct reasons, were drawn to UGBS for activities ranging from recreation to relaxation. Our findings advocate for the creation of multifunctional UGBS that cater to these varied interests, incorporating features such as air-purifying plants, scenic pathways, and zones for family activities, all underpinned by enhanced safety and accessibility. The study also highlights distinct transportation preferences among residents of Chengguan’s northern and southern parts, suggesting a tailored approach to urban infrastructure that accommodates pedestrian access and public transit use. To prevent overcrowding, adjusting facility hours and event timings based on peak visitation times is recommended. Moreover, improving walkways and public transport connectivity is essential not just for convenience but also for ensuring that these green spaces are equitable and financially accessible, fostering inclusive access to these essential urban areas. During the pandemic, social media revealed a growing search for spiritual fulfillment within UGBS, highlighting their importance in societal well-being and coping mechanisms. In response, there’s a compelling opportunity for UGBS to evolve by incorporating designated areas for spiritual relaxation, along with mental health support services. By actively monitoring social media feedback and trends, these spaces can adapt and refine their offerings, ensuring that they meet the community’s changing needs more effectively. Our study highlights the importance of tailoring UGBS to meet diverse community needs, especially during crises. It emphasizes creating multifunctional, accessible UGBS that reflect demographic trends, transportation habits, and public preferences, aiming to boost community resilience and well-being. Drawing from research conducted amidst a worldwide crisis, our study provides key recommendations for the future evolution of UGBS, urging the creation of inclusive environments that bolster the health and well-being of urban populations.

Suggested Citation

  • Yuliang Wang & Feifei Li & Dan Liu & Zilong Zhang, 2024. "Urban Green–Blue Space Utilization and Public Perceptions Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: Insights from Northwest China," Land, MDPI, vol. 13(4), pages 1-25, April.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlands:v:13:y:2024:i:4:p:540-:d:1378353
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Melissa R. Marselle & Sara L. Warber & Katherine N. Irvine, 2019. "Growing Resilience through Interaction with Nature: Can Group Walks in Nature Buffer the Effects of Stressful Life Events on Mental Health?," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(6), pages 1-25, March.
    2. Heechul Kim & Seungho Yang, 2017. "Neighborhood Walking and Social Capital: The Correlation between Walking Experience and Individual Perception of Social Capital," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 9(5), pages 1-16, April.
    3. Allam, Zaheer & Jones, David S., 2020. "Pandemic stricken cities on lockdown. Where are our planning and design professionals [now, then and into the future]?," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 97(C).
    4. Carolina Mayen Huerta & Gianluca Cafagna, 2021. "Snapshot of the Use of Urban Green Spaces in Mexico City during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(8), pages 1-23, April.
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