Assessing blue-green infrastructure in high-density communities: Residents’ environmental preferences in Qingdao, China

Abstract

Blue-green infrastructure in high-density communities has been found to be vital to the well-being of urban residents, particularly in 15 min walkable communities. However, residents’ environmental preferences for blue-green infrastructure in high-density urban areas have received little attention. This study uses a walking interview method with 90 participants to explore residents’ motivations, activities and preferences in both community and riverside green spaces. The study area centers on the Licun River and surrounding communities within a 15 min walking distance of the river in Qingdao, China, a high-density city promoting 15 min walkable communities. The findings showed that relaxation was the main reason for visiting both types of spaces. Riverside green spaces supported a wider variety of activities but notable differences in preferences for particular spaces, particularly across gender and age groups. Within community green spaces, artificial elements had a stronger impact on preferences, whereas in riverside green spaces, natural elements were more influential. Blue-green infrastructure planning in high-density cities should then consider diverse user needs by accounting for demographic differences and adapting design elements to various spatial contexts. Since a 15 min walk is not feasible for all residents, enhancing the safety, walkability and inclusivity of blue-green infrastructure is essential for everyday use