More than nature: Linkages between well-being and greenspace influenced by a combination of elements of nature and non-nature in a New York City urban park

Abstract

This study examines the association between the elements of an urban greenspace and users’ subjective well-being (SWB). In addition to the urgency of addressing climate change, co-benefits such as health and well-being are stimulating increasing investment in urban green infrastructure. Previous studies have established a link between SWB and urban greenspace and identified connectedness to nature (CTN) as one contributor to this effect. Few studies, however, have examined the interactions of park elements as they contribute to CTN and SWB. The current work evaluates the relative importance of various elements of an urban greenspace for individuals’ feelings of SWB and CTN. Possible determinants are investigated through mixed-methods analysis using data from a rating task and interviews conducted with park users in Washington Square Park, NYC. Findings indicate (1) trees are the most important element of nature contributing to a majority of participants’ SWB and CTN, and (2) that for the majority of participants, SWB derives from both elements of nature and non-nature. Results also suggest that a majority of park users are responding to their experience of the park as a whole; this experience is identified as para-urban—characterized by occurring in a space set apart from the rest of the city.