Urban Green Areas as a Tool for City Care: Insights from Medium-Sized Italian Cities

Abstract

This paper introduces a research methodology to investigate the impact of urban green areas on human health, focusing on medium-sized Italian cities. Recognizing the critical link between urban environments and health outcomes, particularly concerning non-communicable diseases exacerbated by urbanization, the study employs concepts of spatial justice, place-based health, and environmental vulnerability. The methodology involves calculating the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index from satellite imagery, determining Pro Capita Green Space, and estimating Real Accessibility to urban parks within a 15-minute walk. Applied to six diverse Italian cities, the analysis reveals varying distributions and accessibility of green spaces, highlighting the influence of historical urban layouts, population density, and natural features on environmental equity. The findings underscore the importance of strategically integrated urban green infrastructure for promoting public health.