Spatial characteristics of urban green space: A case study of Shanghai, China

Abstract

In China, rapid urbanization has profoundly transformed the spatial pattern of urban land use, including urban green spaces. The government plans to optimize green spaces to integrate them with urban development; this requires an understanding of the process of green space change. Quantifying landscape pattern and its change is essential for monitoring and assessing ecological consequences of urbanization. In this study, the moving window method and gradient analysis were used to analyze high- resolution satellite images and interpret Shanghai urban green space distribution data. A window of 5 km was found to be a rational size that can reflect urban green space patterns via changes in landscape metrics. Green space patterns can be quantified through gradient analysis and landscape metrics. Different types of green space exhibit obvious “spatial characteristics” along the landscape pattern gradient. Urban green space distribution patterns can be used to verify the urban space development mode. The ‘concentric circle’ development theory was applicable to the urban development of Shanghai. The research provides significant guidance for further study on the interrelations of urban green space pattern processes, for examination and assessment of urbanization processes and for urban planners and decision makers.