Environmental perception by the visitors of urban parks in the city of Maringá, Southern region of Brazil

Abstract

Urban parks are essential in improving the quality of life of the population in the cities. In this study, we sought to understand the perception of citizens about the importance of urban parks in the city of Maringá-PR, and the environmental aspects that involve their relationship with green areas. The parks analyzed were Parque do Ingá and Parque Municipal Alfredo Werner Nyffeler, both of which are widely frequented by the population. Exploratory field research was used, through the application of questionnaires, which covered questions related to the user’s profile, environmental perception and the structure of the parks. 212 people were interviewed, 106 in each park. The feeling of well-being, as well as the benefits related to physical and mental health, and contact with nature, were the most highly valued attributes. It can be seen that these green areas make the urban environment more pleasant and play a fundamental role in improving the quality of life of the researched public. The subjective perception developed by visitors to green areas in urban centers shows the importance of developing public policies aimed at the implementation, conservation and management of urban parks, with a consequent expansion and improvement of urban sustainability.