Ecosystem Services in the Planning and Sustainable Development of Urban Green Spaces

Urban Green Spaces (UGSs) have transcended their traditional role as mere aesthetic embellishments to become critical infrastructure underpinning essential Ecosystem Services (ES). While traditional research has focused on the biophysical supply of ES, the contemporary research frontier has pivoted towards a more integrative paradigm. By harnessing big data, machine learning, and rigorous policy evaluation, current studies aim to bridge the critical gap between ecological supply and human well-being. This Special Issue encapsulates this shift, exploring the multi-dimensional value of UGSs-from climate regulation to Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES), encompassing recreation, aesthetics, and heritage. A central theme of this collection is the intricate socio-ecological interaction within urban fabrics. We highlight research that dissects how external environmental factors influence park usage and shape public perception, thereby linking physical spaces with social behaviors. Furthermore, the issue addresses the pressing challenges of spatial equity, policy effectiveness, and governance. Contributions within this volume examine the delicate coordination between urban livability and population distribution, the tangible impacts of national strategies like the Ecological Conservation Redline on ES supply, and the complex trade-offs inherent in land-use planning. By introducing novel assessment frameworks and governance pathways, this collection provides actionable insights for fostering sustainable urban development amidst the pressures of rapid urbanization.