A Methodology for Assessing the Implementation Potential for Retrofitted and Multifunctional Urban Green Infrastructure in Public Areas of the Global South

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer review

Authors

  • Tanja Fluhrer
  • Jochen Hack
  • José Fernando Chapa Zumba

External Research Organisations

  • Technische Universität Darmstadt
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Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number384
Number of pages25
JournalSustainability
Volume13
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - 4 Jan 2021
Externally publishedYes

Abstract

Urban green infrastructure (UGI) provides multiple functions that combine ecological and social benefits. UGI is being increasingly promoted and implemented in the Global North. In other parts of the world, such as in the Global South, infrastructures for UGI implementation and promotion are sparse. The state of infrastructure development and informal settlements in the Global South present different constraints and demands that should be explicitly addressed. This study presents an approach to addressing the specific conditions and physical limitations of UGI development in urban areas of the Global South. A four-step methodology was developed to assess the implementation potential for retrofitted and multifunctional urban green infrastructure in public areas. This methodology consists of (1) an initial site analysis, (2) defining design criteria and general strategies, (3) exploring the different dimensions of multifunctionality as the basis for deriving spatial typologies, and (4) assessing spatial suitability for potential placements for UGI elements. The methodology was applied to a study area in the metropolitan region of San José, Costa Rica. The results indicate the potential to improve the hydrological (up to 34% of surface runoff reduction), ecological (an increase of green space by 2.2%, creation of 1500mlength of roadside greenery and two newhabitat types), and social conditions (2200m of road type upgrading) of the site through UGIs. This assessment of different multifunctionality dimensions can serve as a guide for future UGI promotion and implementation in urban areas of the Global South.

Keywords

    Costa rica, Green infrastructure, Neighborhood level, Retrofitting, Sustainability, Urban;multifunctionality

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Sustainable Development Goals

Cite this

A Methodology for Assessing the Implementation Potential for Retrofitted and Multifunctional Urban Green Infrastructure in Public Areas of the Global South. / Fluhrer, Tanja; Hack, Jochen; Chapa Zumba, José Fernando.
In: Sustainability, Vol. 13, No. 1, 384, 04.01.2021.

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer review

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