Quantitative evaluation of distribution and accessibility of urban green spaces (Case study: City of Jeddah)

Urban green spaces are quite significant in reducing negative effects of urbanization. They are viewed as the green lung of the city, and typically perform important functions, including absorbing rainwater and pollutants, and mitigating urban heat. Urban green spaces can also provide considerable socioeconomic benefits, such reducing work-related stress, and increasing property values. Green space is becoming an important measure in judging the ecological sustainability of urban areas. Planners and designers need efficient tools to quantitatively evaluate and compare the impact of alternative plans and designs so that more informed development choices could be made. This study presents an evaluation of spatial equity in distribution of green spaces in Jeddah city using Geographic Information System (GIS). GIS analysis is used to study the spatial distribution of needs and accessibility. The results of this study show that the average green space per capita is 0.9 m² and more that 70% of population have to walk distance exceed 500 m to reach green space. In order to reach green space equal to 30 m² per capita which is the standard of united nation it's needed to meet lack of urban green space about 93,808,406 m² in Jeddah city.