The importance of green spaces in modern residential development: Analysis of greenery in multi-family housing areas in Niš

<p>Focusing on their existence and purpose in multi-family housing complexes, this study analyzes the significance of green spaces in urban environments, using the city of Niš as a critical case. Niš has experienced a continuous decline in green areas due to rapid urbanization and weak planning enforcement, which has negatively impacted residents. The lack of greenery causes numerous problems, including the urban heat island effect, poor air quality, and reduced community recreation spaces. It also addresses the challenges of implementing and maintaining greenery, emphasizing how investors frequently prioritize short-term financial gains over long-term environmental and social benefits.</p> <p>The methodology involves a review of relevant literature, an examination of successful international practices, an analysis of urban planning documents related to Niš, field observation, and an assessment of public institutions. This approach helps identify key factors shaping the presence and quality of green spaces in residential zones. It examines how urbanization in Niš, favoring building density over greenery, has resulted in insufficient integration of green infrastructure in new residential developments.</p> <p>Based on examples from abroad, such as Denmark’s Green Mapping and the Netherlands’ Operation Steenbreek, the paper proposes strategies for increasing and preserving green spaces in urban neighborhoods. These international models offer adaptable principles with potential for application in the context of urban planning in Niš.</p> <p>Finally, a comparative analysis of planning standards, supported by a mathematical evaluation of green space requirements and reflections on policy implications for Niš, reinforces the conclusion that policy interventions, stricter regulation, and community engagement are urgently needed. The findings underscore the importance of long-term environmental strategies, community involvement, and effective urban design to preserve and enhance green areas in residential zones, particularly in response to ongoing environmental degradation and worsening air quality in Niš.</p>