As áreas verdes públicas de Lavras-MG (Brasil) e Newark-DE (EUA)

Abstract

The urban green spaces (UGS) are free spaces in the cities, which allow the recreation, leisure and contact of man with nature. This theme has been increasingly approached and studied due to its relevance, since the presence of these areas in the urban space generates several ecological and social benefits, because it makes possible the greater contact of man with nature. Thus, analyzing, planning and stimulating the establishment of more UGS in the cities is fundamental for the improvement of the quality of life. However, only quantifying the UGS is often not enough, it is necessary, then, to understand a set of urban and social characteristics to optimize the planning and construction of these areas. The aim of this study was to analyze the current situation and distribution of the UGS of Lavras, state of Minas Gerais (MG), Brazil, by determining the green area index (according to population density) and the percentage area of UGS, as well as City of Newark, located in the state of Delaware (DE), USA. By means of t hese measurements, it was also aimed at comparing the UGS of these cities, showing their main differences. In addition to measuring these indicators of the Lavras and Newark and analyzing the UGS distribution in these cities, the aim was also to present, analyze and understand the needs and aspirations of these two populations. For the data collection, field visits were made and then the areas (m²) of the UGS were measured through satellite image analysis using the ArcGIS software. Afterwards, the indicators were calculated and analyzed. For the survey, structured questionnaires were applied. The quantitative data from the questionnaires were tabulated using the software: SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences). The city of Lavras presented 0.29% of UGS and a green area index of 0.62 m² / inhabitant and 0.54m² / inhab. considering its floating population. Newark resulted in a UGS percentage of 7% and its green area index was 84.3 m² / hab., without counting the floating population and 50,2 m² / hab. considering its population. In addition, the distribution of UGS is homogenous only in Newark. However, much of both populations never use their UGS, and the biggest reason is the lack of time. In Lavras, other representative reasons were dissatisfaction regarding the infrastructure and the security of these places. In contrast, in Newark the population approves of the infrastructure and security offered in their UGS, but even with good indicators of the UGS, their population considers them far from their homes or do not like to spend their free time in these places. The biggest reason that both societies take advantage of UGS is to relax, followed by the reasons for exercising and still being in touch with nature or with friends and people. The population of both cities claims to want to participate in voluntary actions to take care of these UGS and also prefer to use public green areas to particular green areas. Both societies are aware of the importance of the presence of UGS in the urban space to improve the quality of life and would like to have more UGS in their cities.