| Abstrakt: |
Urban parks in Vietnam are undergoing expansion plans, yet the actual area is dwindling, attributed to limited ecosystem services and inadequate public engagement. This study addressed the dual challenge of shrinking green spaces and the need for enhanced ecosystem services in urban areas. We aimed to devise strategies to bolster ecosystem service development through a comprehensive survey of park users and an analysis of the impact of green areas on ecosystem service quality. Specifically, we surveyed 400 residents to gauge perceptions, attitudes, and insights regarding park ecosystem services. Additionally, we assessed the importance of urban green spaces through various indicators (pH,DO,TSS,COD,N–NH4+,N–NO2−,N–NO3−,P–PO43−) in surface runoff samples, both with and without vegetation, during five rainfall events. The findings reveal a limited understanding of park ecosystem services among the populace, reflected in their minimal willingness to pay for such services. Moreover, the study uncovers significant differences in the impacts of parks on sustainable urban drainage, as evidenced by contrasting qualities of rainwater samples processed through green areas versus typical stormwater runoff. These results underscore the need for targeted interventions to raise awareness and improve ecosystem services in urban parks, which is pivotal for sustainable urban development. This case study from Vietnam contributes both theoretically and practically by highlighting the crucial role of public awareness and engagement in enhancing ecosystem services in urban landscapes. Practical Applications: Our study illuminates the crucial role of nature-based solutions in enhancing ecosystem services within urban environments, as exemplified by Gia Dinh and Tao Dan Parks in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This research is particularly valuable for urban developers, park management, and city planners because it underscores the potential of urban parks to contribute significantly to environmental sustainability and public well-being. We found that the public's awareness and valuation of the parks' ecosystem services are key to their willingness to support and fund park improvements. Therefore, educational programs aimed at increasing understanding of the benefits provided by these green spaces could lead to greater community involvement and investment in their maintenance and development. For policymakers, our findings suggest that investing in the ecological aspects of urban parks can pay off in terms of both enhanced environmental quality and increased public usage and enjoyment. Additionally, the implementation of sustainable drainage systems within these parks not only mitigates urban flooding but also improves the quality of urban runoff, presenting a compelling case for integrating similar nature-based solutions in urban planning initiatives. By presenting clear, real-world examples from Gia Dinh and Tao Dan Parks, our study provides a framework for other cities looking to link ecosystem services with urban development. The insights gained here can guide the transformation of urban green spaces into multifunctional areas that support biodiversity, provide recreational opportunities, and serve as cornerstones for sustainable city living. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
