Exploring the Intersection of Environmental Justice and Urban Green Space Planning: A Systematic Review

Abstract

While urban green spaces (UGS) are essential sources of environmental, social, and health benefits, their inequitable distribution is representative of deeply entrenched socio-economic and racial inequalities that exacerbate environmental justice (EJ) challenges in the planning of UGS. Based on a systematic literature review and case studies, this paper examines the intersection of EJ and UGS issues, including evidence of environmental racism, procedural exclusion of marginalised groups, the process of green gentrification, and the marginalisation of vulnerable populations. Results show that greening efforts often favour higher-income neighbourhoods at the expense of the most vulnerable residents in low-income areas. Utilising an EJ framework, including distributive, procedural, and recognitional dimensions, strategies for equitable urban greening include community-led planning and inclusive zoning, targeted funding, and nature-based solutions to address EJ concerns. This paper emphasises the importance of embedding justice and inclusion into the core of urban sustainability processes, noting that planning frameworks must give precedence to social equity if ecological goals are to result in fair access for all.