The interconnection between urban green areas and cultural ecosystem services: A case study in Boadilla del Monte (Spain)

Air pollution, increased hydrogeological risk, and the urban heat island effect are significant consequences of human overcrowding in urban areas. To mitigate these adverse impacts, urban greening has emerged as a viable solution. Green areas in cities offer a range of benefits, including easily measurable ones like oxygen production and pollutant reduction, as well as more intangible benefits related to the socio-cultural well-being of residents. This paper aims to deepen the understanding of these less quantifiable urban ecosystem services through the active engagement of citizens in Boadilla del Monte, a medium-sized city in the Autonomous Community of Madrid, Spain. An online survey was conducted to examine residents' relationships with urban greenery, focusing on their usage, perceptions, and awareness of the interconnections between climate change, ecosystem services, and green areas. The findings indicate that while citizens possess a solid understanding of environmental issues and the benefits provided by urban green areas, there is less familiarity with the term "Ecosystem Services" and even less with the concept of assigning monetary value to these services. Regarding climate change, most respondents, aside from a small group of skeptics, acknowledge its local impact. Additionally, the study serves as a valuable tool for assessing citizen satisfaction with the Municipality's commitment to creating spaces for social integration, such as parks and urban gardens, while reinforcing strategies for adapting the city to ongoing climate change. By engaging citizens in this research, we hope to enhance public awareness and foster a community-oriented approach to sustainable urban planning.