Promoting Healthier Cities and Communities Through Quantitative Evaluation of Public Open Space per Inhabitant

Abstract

Public open spaces play a vital role in supporting social connection and leisure among residents, enhancing quality of life while contributing to both economic growth and environmental health. The rapid global urbanization underscores the critical link between urban environments and human health, which demands focusing on sustainable, health-conscious urban planning. Accordingly, Public and green spaces are vital in this context, as recognized by global agendas like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 11.7. This research aims to objectively evaluate the availability of public open spaces (POS) in Alexandria, Egypt. This study will utilize Geographic Information System (GIS) to formulate a methodology that incorporates spatial data analysis for quantifying public open spaces and assessing the proportion of the population with convenient access to these areas, evaluating their coverage, service area isochrones, spatial distribution, and proximity to residential areas. The study will benchmark its findings against global standards to expose critical spatial inequalities within cities of the Global South. The primary aim is to present evidence-based recommendations for sustainable urban public space design, tackling availability and accessibility issues to improve the well-being of Alexandria’s expanding urban population. This research offers a scientific foundation to inform policy and decision-making focused on creating more equitable, healthier, and resilient urban environments.