Does Educational Profile Influence Student Perception of Ecosystem Service Provision by Blue-Green Infrastructure?

Abstract

Blue-green infrastructure (BGI) is an important source of ecosystem services (ES) for urban residents; however, the perception of ES varies throughout the population. An important factor in this regard is having a formal education, as this plays a key role in recognizing environmental benefits and understanding the value of less obvious services. In addition, the educational profile may also have an impact on ES assessment. The present study examines how students perceive BGI and its associated ecosystem services. Students of Social Work, Ecocity, Spatial Economy and Biology at the University of Lodz were surveyed to determine whether educational profile may influence their assessment of ES. Our findings indicate that educational profile can play a significant role in explaining the perception of ESs provided by urban BGI. The students of Biology have a better understanding of the importance of BGI for improving the ecological status and quality of life in urban areas.