Investigating equitable access of children and seniors to urban green spaces and its relationship with neighborhood walkability: a case study of Tehran, Iran

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the distribution of urban green spaces for children and seniors in Tehran, delving into their connection with demographic attributes and the walkability of neighborhoods. The findings reveal an unequal distribution, confirmed by the Gini index for children (0.57) and seniors (0.62). Moreover, the Multiple Regression Analysis revealed that the apartment occupancy rate (r = –0.19) and migrant rate (r = –0.13) were inversely correlated with seniors’ access to green spaces, whereas the employment rate (r = 0.16), intersection density (r = 0.27), and land use mix (r = 0.20) exhibited positive associations. Additionally, concerning children, the findings indicated positive correlations between intersection density (r = 0.25) and land use mix (r = 0.12) and their access to green spaces. These findings underscore the importance of adopting a co-benefits strategy and taking into account demographic characteristics and neighborhood walkability in urban planning and decision-making to ensure fair access to urban green spaces for vulnerable populations. Implementing strategies like establishing green spaces in areas with lower walkability and improving neighborhood connectivity can greatly improve the accessibility of urban green spaces for both children and seniors.

KEYWORDS:

• Urban green space
• spatial accessibility
• children
• seniors
• environmental justice
• equitability

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Milad Asadi

Milad Asadi completed his Master’s degree in Urban Planning at Daneshpajoohan Pishro Higher Education Institute. His research interests center around the topics of healthy cities, equitable communities, sustainable urban development, and enhancing the livability of cities.

Mahin Nastaran

Mahin Nastaran served as the Head of the School of City Engineering at the Art University of Isfahan. Presently, she holds the position of associate professor and is a researcher and educator with over 22 years of experience. Her academic pursuits focus on planning for diversity and difference, the establishment of child-friendly cities, promoting social sustainability, and the improvement of overall quality of life.