Last updated on Nov 28, 2024

How do you measure and communicate the social and environmental benefits of parks?

Parks are more than just green spaces for recreation and relaxation. They also provide a range of social and environmental benefits that can enhance the quality of life, health, and well-being of communities. But how do you measure and communicate these benefits to stakeholders, funders, and users? In this article, you will learn some of the methods and tools that landscape designers use to evaluate and showcase the value of parks.

1 Benefits framework

One of the first steps to measure and communicate the benefits of parks is to establish a clear and consistent framework that defines what benefits are relevant and how they are measured. A benefits framework can help you identify the goals, indicators, data sources, and methods for assessing the impacts of parks on different aspects of social and environmental well-being. For example, you can use a framework such as the Green Infrastructure Evaluation Framework (GIEF) or the Social Return on Investment (SROI) approach to guide your analysis.

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Subhrajyoti Nag

Accredited Landscape Architect IFLA-APR , Landscape Architect |MLA SPAB- 24|
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To accurately assess and communicate the social and environmental value of parks, it's essential to create a structured framework that identifies the key benefits and assessment methods. This framework should clearly define goals, metrics, and reliable data sources to evaluate the impact of parks on community wellness and ecological health. Utilizing models like the Green Infrastructure Evaluation Framework (GIEF) or the Social Return on Investment (SROI) can offer useful insights and help illustrate how parks contribute positively to both society and the environment.

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Resham Mehta

Landscape Architect I Visiting Faculty
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Architectural monuments of great historic significance are provided with heritage ratings. Another way of communicating the social and environmental benefits of parks could be done by providing them with environmental ratings. For instance if the park provides a wide array of environmental and social benefits in addition to being the first line of defence for protection against flooding, these parks could be provided with the highest grade to communicate it's social and environmental role in the city

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2 Data collection

The next step is to collect the data that will help you quantify and qualify the benefits of parks. Depending on the type and scope of your project, you may need to use different data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, focus groups, or secondary data sources. You may also need to consider the frequency, timing, and location of your data collection, as well as the ethical and practical issues involved. For example, you may need to obtain consent from park users, ensure data privacy and security, and avoid bias and errors in your data.

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Irene Rondini

Driving Sustainable Impact through Digital Marketing & Green Building Initiatives | Biodiversity Advocate | Irish GBC | EPD Ireland
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When collecting data to quantify and qualify the benefits of parks, it's key for me to speak directly to the park users. Engaging with them through surveys, interviews, and focus groups provides firsthand insights that are invaluable for understanding the true impact of the space. This approach ensures that the data reflects the actual experiences and needs of the community but also helps in addressing any ethical concerns, like consent and privacy, with transparency and care.

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3 Data analysis

Once you have collected the data, you need to analyze it to derive meaningful and accurate insights about the benefits of parks. You may need to use different data analysis methods, such as descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, thematic analysis, or cost-benefit analysis. You may also need to use different data analysis tools, such as spreadsheets, software, or online platforms. For example, you can use tools such as i-Tree or CAVAT to estimate the economic value of the ecosystem services provided by parks.

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4 Data visualization

After you have analyzed the data, you need to visualize it to make it easier to understand and communicate. You may need to use different data visualization techniques, such as charts, graphs, maps, infographics, or dashboards. You may also need to use different data visualization tools, such as PowerPoint, Tableau, or Canva. For example, you can use tools such as ParkScore or Green-Space to compare and rank the quality and accessibility of parks in different cities.

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5 Data storytelling

The final step is to tell a compelling and engaging story with your data that highlights the benefits of parks and motivates action. You may need to use different data storytelling elements, such as context, characters, conflict, resolution, and call to action. You may also need to use different data storytelling formats, such as reports, presentations, videos, or podcasts. For example, you can use formats such as case studies or testimonials to showcase the positive outcomes and impacts of parks on individuals and communities.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Resham Mehta

Landscape Architect I Visiting Faculty
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In order to communicate the social and environmental benefits of parks, informative signages can be installed in parks to spread awareness. However, these signages should include statistical data. For instance, instead of specifying that parks are the green lungs of the city, the signage should details out the number of trees in the park, the approximate amount of oxygen released by the green cover and the improvement in AQI around the park. In my opinion as there is a lack of direct valuation, parks are not given there due recognition of environmental and social benefits they provide.

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How do you measure and communicate the social and environmental benefits of parks?

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1 Benefits framework

2 Data collection

3 Data analysis

4 Data visualization

5 Data storytelling

6 Here’s what else to consider

Landscape Design

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