Public Perceptions of Urban Green Spaces: Effects on Physical and Mental Health

Urban green spaces are essential for promoting public health by encouraging physical activity, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. However, the perception and utilization of these spaces vary based on socio-demographic factors and urban planning characteristics. This study investigates public perception of urban green spaces and their perceived health benefits, emphasizing their psychological, physical, and social impacts. The study involved 240 respondents who assessed the availability and quality of green spaces as well as the social and psychological aspects of their use. The survey was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results showed that environmental awareness (β = 0.404, p < 0.001) and social interaction (β = 0.391, p < 0.001) are significant predictors of the frequency of visiting green spaces, while their availability and quality do not have a significant impact. These findings highlight the critical role of environmental education and community awareness initiatives in maximizing the health benefits derived from urban green spaces. Frequency of use is positively associated with both mental (β = 0.272, p = 0.002) and physical health (β = 0.409, p < 0.001). Surprisingly, social interaction demonstrates a negative impact on mental health (β = −0.166, p = 0.002), which requires further study. The obtained results highlight the need for an integrated approach to studying the relationship between the urban environment and population health.