According to Ali Ata, Urban green spaces are essential elements in the development of sustainable cities. These include parks, gardens, green roofs, community forests, and street trees. As urban populations continue to grow, the role of green spaces becomes increasingly critical. They contribute not only to environmental health but also to social and economic resilience.

Environmental Benefits

Green spaces directly impact urban sustainability through environmental regulation. They act as natural air filters, reducing pollutants and improving air quality. Trees and vegetation absorb carbon dioxide, making green areas valuable carbon sinks.

Key environmental benefits include:

• Temperature Regulation: Urban heat islands are a common issue. Green spaces help lower temperatures through shade and evapotranspiration.
• Stormwater Management: Vegetated areas absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and the risk of urban flooding.
• Biodiversity Support: Parks and gardens provide habitats for birds, insects, and small animals, maintaining local ecosystems.

These functions are crucial as cities face challenges related to climate change. Green infrastructure complements traditional engineering solutions, offering more adaptive and cost-effective strategies.

Social Impact

Beyond the environment, urban green spaces influence the well-being of city residents, as per Ali Ata. Access to nature has been linked to mental and physical health improvements. Communities with adequate green coverage often report higher levels of satisfaction and cohesion.

Some important social contributions:

• Public Health: Green spaces encourage physical activity and reduce stress, contributing to lower rates of obesity and depression.
• Social Integration: Parks serve as communal spaces that support social interaction and cultural events.
• Equity and Access: Equitable distribution of green areas ensures all residents benefit, regardless of income or neighbourhood.

Urban planners must consider these factors to promote inclusive and healthy urban environments.

Economic Value

While the environmental and social gains are clear, green spaces also generate economic benefits. Cities with well-maintained green areas often see increased property values and attract business investments.

Economic advantages include:

• Increased Real Estate Value: Proximity to parks can raise housing prices and stimulate local development.
• Tourism and Recreation: Urban parks attract tourists and provide venues for events, generating revenue.
• Job Creation: The maintenance and development of green spaces create employment opportunities in landscaping, design, and environmental services.

These economic benefits feed back into the sustainability cycle by reinforcing the value of investment in green infrastructure.

Urban Planning and Policy

To maximize the benefits of green spaces, cities need strategic planning and policy frameworks. Integration into broader urban development is essential. Poorly designed green areas may underperform or worsen inequalities.

Effective policies should:

• Mandate Green Coverage: Urban development codes can include minimum green space requirements.
• Encourage Multi-functional Design: Spaces should serve environmental, recreational, and cultural functions simultaneously.
• Promote Community Participation: Engaging residents in planning and upkeep fosters a sense of ownership and accountability.

Collaboration between governments, urban designers, and local communities is key. When policies align with sustainability goals, the impact of green spaces becomes long-lasting.

Interconnected Sustainability

The environmental, social, and economic aspects of green spaces are deeply interconnected. A cooler, cleaner environment supports public health. Healthier communities contribute to economic productivity. Stronger economies enable further investment in sustainable infrastructure.

Thus, urban green spaces are not isolated features—they are central to how cities function and evolve. They support sustainability through:

• Climate resilience
• Public well-being
• Economic growth
• Urban equity

The thoughtful integration of green spaces, therefore, is essential to building sustainable cities, as per Ali Ata. Their role spans across climate adaptation, community development, and economic stability. Urban planners and policymakers must prioritize green infrastructure as a core component of urban sustainability strategies.