Evaluating the multifunctionality of the local green structure by using Green Area Factor for Districts

Authors

• Elisa Lähde Aalto university
• Paula Piirainen Aalto university
• Ranja Hautamäki Aalto university

Keywords:

green structure, Green Area Factor for Districts, ecosystem services, suburban landscape

Abstract

The article focuses on Green Area Factor for Districts as a tool for evaluating the multifunctionality of the local green structure. The method is fairly new in Finland - and internationally - but there is a growing interest towards it. Using Matinkylä district in the city of Espoo as a case area, we examine how the Green Area Factor for Districts method can be used to indicate and quantify the benefits and values produced by green areas. We demonstrate that different urban typologies offer different ecosystem services. We also discuss, based on mapping  expert views, how the method should be used and developed in the future in order to support climate-wise urban planning.