Stadswerk Magazine issue 7, 13 September 2022
Local climate regulation,CO2 reduction or biodiversity using urban green space. Measuring and demonstrating ecosystem services makes it possible. Using real-time data, it is clear exactly what needs to be done in a neighbourhood, park or square. With a focus on the value of greenery. The local amount of soil moisture, particulate matter or temperature; everything is insightful in the GAES dashboard. An indispensable opportunity to make limited public spaces functional and circular.
Imagine two squares within one street. On one side, a green square with flowers and a play meadow filled with trees. While on the other side is a petrified square, where the heat on the tiles can make it up to 15 degrees hotter. Static data allows us to see data about a city, district or borough. Yet in many cases this is not specific enough and does not give a clear picture of the local situation. That is exactly what real-time data does.
Ecosystem service measurements
Real-time and social data go beyond static data. It makes the available data more usable and offers more opportunities to improve public spaces. What is the wind chill, do people feel safe and what is the main purpose of this place? This data contributes to temperature reduction, local climate regulation and healthy, happy people.
The value of green
The first step is an analysis of the location in question. From this, we determine a number of ecosystem services to realise. Such as influencing thermal comfort and wind chill, by cooling the space with greening. And the results are worth it, because people feel healthier. But also think about combating heat mortality, high healthcare costs and feelings of insecurity. A good (and green) environment contributes to this. To ensure that the ecosystem services are actually realised, the location is monitored for five to ten years. In this way, the value of green space is optimised for all residents.
For more information, contact 06-11514381 or w.jacobs@groenalseenservice.nl.