Ecosystem services provided by urban gardens in Barcelona, Spain: Insights for policy and planning

摘要: Abstract In many European cities, urban gardens are seen as increasingly important components of green space networks. We adopt an ecosystem services framework to assess contributions the quality their users. First, we identify and characterize provided by gardens. Secondly, demographic socioeconomic profile its beneficiaries relative importance they attribute different services. Next discuss relevance our results in relation critical policy challenges, such promotion societal cohesion healthy lifestyles. Data were collected through 44 semi-structured interviews a survey among 201 users 27 Barcelona, Spain, well from consultation meetings with local planners. identified 20 services, ranging food production over pollination social environmental learning. Among them, cultural (non-material benefits people derive interaction nature) ​ stand out most widely perceived highly valued. The main elder, low-middle income, migrant people. Our about ​were deemed relevant interviewed planners who noted that data can provide basis support or expand existing gardening programs city. research further suggests play role addressing several challenges promoting stewardship ecosystems, providing opportunities for recreation lifestyles, cohesion. conclude associated policies aimed at enhancing life particularly if access is expanded larger segments population.