ASSESSING THE ROLE OF NATION GARDENS IN SUSTAINABLE LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: A STUDY OF TÜRKİYE'S GREEN SPACE POLICIES

From an economic standpoint, green spaces often gain value when they are conserved or restored to serve specific economic and social functions. Financial issues such as consumption (use value) and government investments are considered in traditional economic valuations of green spaces. However, a broader perspective, aligned with sustainable development principles, considers both direct and indirect social, environmental, and economic impacts. Uses mixed-methods study aims to assess the sustainability of Türkiye's Nation Gardens (NG) project in the context of local economic development. This study focuses on completed Nation Gardens (NG) projects in Istanbul. Survey data was collected to gauge visitor perceptions and satisfaction with the NG. The study results show that while the NG serves its purpose as a green space, there are some concerns regarding its contribution to sustainable development. This research contributes to a better understanding of the economic value of sustainable urban design and park management.