The biophilia hypothesis explored: regenerative urban green spaces and well-being in a Portuguese sample
Marina Prieto Afonso Lencastre, Diogo Guedes Vidal, Rui Estrada, Nelson Barros, Rui Leandro Maia, Paulo Farinha-Marques
Abstract
This paper considers the relationship between biophilia and well-being in a sample of users of urban green spaces in the city of Porto (Portugal) as a case study. The biophilia hypothesis is explored through the responses of 131 participants in a survey. Users of urban green spaces valued their provision of quiet and shade, with a high diversity of plant species and tranquillity. The survey also found that being satisfied with urban green spaces enhances self-perceived health status, which means that being satisfied with a green space that fulfils users’ expectations can be a way to improve well-being in urban areas. Creating stimulating regenerative urban green spaces offers the possibility to experience significant connections to nature.