URBAN GREEN SPACES AND HUMAN WELLBEING: ASSESSING THE CARRYING CAPACITY OF URBAN PARKS AND RECREATION AREAS IN DANAO CITY

Urban green spaces enhance human well-being, offer ecosystem services, and support sustainable urban development. This study evaluated the carrying capacity of urban parks and recreation areas in Danao City, specifically the Boardwalk, Rizal Plaza, Children's Paradise, and Sands Gateway, focusing on their impact on residents' physical and mental health. The study revealed that Boardwalk has the highest carrying capacity with 909 visitors, followed by Children’s Paradise, Rizal Park, and Sands Gateway, with 291, 256, and 131 visitors on average per day. Through surveys and observational data, the research examines the usage, satisfaction, level of overcrowding, most bothersome aspects, and capacity of these parks. The study shows that the parks' cleanliness and maintenance received the highest customer satisfaction rating, while restroom facilities scored lower. The findings underscore the significant role of green spaces in reducing stress, promoting physical activity, and enhancing mental health. The study emphasized the need to maintain and improve these spaces to cater to the increasing urban population. Recommendations include enhancing cleanliness, expanding parking facilities, improving safety measures, and increasing amenities like benches and shaded areas. Understanding the carrying capacity is crucial to ensuring these parks can accommodate visitors without environmental degradation, thus preserving their benefits for residents. This research highlights the importance of urban green spaces in creating livable, sustainable cities and calls for strategic planning and management to optimize their use and conservation.