Assessment of tools and methods for urban green infrastructure with Emphasis on carbon storage in India

Urban Green Infrastructure (UGI) has become a pivotal framework for addressing the interwoven challenges of rapid urbanization, climate change and environmental degradation, thereby ensuring sustainable urban development. This study presents a comprehensive review of diverse methodologies, planning tools including the Green Infrastructure Gauge (GIG) and Urban Green Space Index (UGSI) and compelling case studies that underscore UGI's role in fostering resilient and liveable urban environments. This study highlights the multifaceted benefits of UGI, notably in climate change mitigation, urban heat island reduction, biodiversity conservation, enhanced human well-being, addressing socio-economic disparities and air pollution. Despite these significant advantages, the review acknowledges persistent challenges in UGI implementation, such as limited stakeholder awareness, financial constraints, inadequate inter-agency collaboration and policy integration hurdles. Furthermore, the study explores UGI’s potential for carbon sequestration and biomass management, reinforcing the necessity of holistic urban planning frameworks to optimize ecological and social advantages. The findings firmly establish UGI as not merely an environmental necessity but a strategic imperative for sustainable urban development. This study asks for future research focused on refining UGI assessment tools and methodologies, exploring innovative financing mechanisms and strategic approaches and fostering enhanced stakeholder engagement. Ultimately, prioritizing investment and research in UGI is crucial for cities to enhance their resilience, to improve residents' quality of life and to contribute substantively to global sustainability goals, building truly resilient and liveable urban futures.