Public Perception of Urban Green Spaces in Climate Mitigation and Adaptation: A Case Study of Public Parks in Delhi

Urban green spaces are integral to climate resilience, offering benefits such as mitigating urban heat, improving air quality, and enhancing well-being. Public parks in Delhi serve as vital community assets, yet their effectiveness in climate adaptation depends on public perception, accessibility, and engagement. This study examines how residents perceive and utilize urban parks, focusing on their awareness of climate benefits, usage patterns, and challenges related to accessibility, maintenance, and governance.

Findings suggest that while people widely acknowledge the environmental and health benefits of urban green spaces, their role in reducing urban temperatures is also recognized. Many residents noted that houses near parks experience cooler microclimates, leading to lower electricity consumption compared to areas with fewer green spaces. Relaxation and physical activity emerged as primary motivations for park visits, yet extreme weather conditions, safety concerns, and inadequate infrastructure often deterred regular use. Despite these challenges, there is strong public support for increasing tree cover, expanding shaded areas, improving park management, and ensuring better accessibility to green spaces, particularly for marginalized communities. Additionally, there is significant willingness among residents to pay for the services provided by these green spaces, further underscoring their perceived value in climate adaptation and urban living.

These insights highlight the crucial role that public perception, accessibility, and participation play in the success of urban climate adaptation strategies. Engaging communities in the planning and management of urban green spaces is key to ensuring that these areas are effectively utilized for climate mitigation and resilience. As climate change intensifies, fostering public awareness and support for green infrastructure can enhance the collective capacity of cities to adapt and thrive in a changing climate.