Study examines equitable distribution of green space in Victoria and Canadian cities

Wealthier Canadians and those with a bachelor’s degree are more likely to have green spaces in their neighborhoods than millennials and low-income earners, according to a new study.

Researchers from the University of British Columbia looked at 31 Canadian cities and used satellite imagery as well as census data on income, education level, race and ethnicity to inform the study .

“We know that urban vegetation can bring many benefits to city dwellers, so we wanted to see if they’re evenly distributed across cities,” said Jessica Quinton, a UBC doctoral student specializing in environmental justice and green equity. , to Black Press Media. .

The question has been looked at in the United States, but there really hasn’t been a large-scale study in Canada, Quinton said. The researchers wanted to see if certain socio-economic and demographic factors played a role in the availability of green spaces.

The researchers found it difficult to see how much the results varied between cities, Quinton said, but it made sense given the diversity across the country. Victoria, with its lower density in much of the city, showed a more even and equitable distribution of greenery than other cities.

About a third of cities have more vegetation in areas associated with higher household incomes, according to the study. A third also showed that areas with higher levels of education led to this increase in green space. About 10 cities also had less abundance of greenery in areas with higher percentages of millennials.

Quinton said those with higher incomes tend to be landlords who have more control over greening their property, compared to renters. More trees also help increase property values, so a fuller canopy is more common in higher-paying neighborhoods. Wealthier people also have more resources to politically or financially leverage greening on nearby public properties, Quinton said.

“We’re hoping that (cities) will take this information and look at their low-income neighborhoods and think about, ‘Well, how can we provide more vegetation on public property here. “”

Millennials tend to live in city centers that are closer to amenities but often have less space for vegetation, Quinton said. Another factor is that these central areas are often where the most affordable housing options are.

As cities densify to meet housing needs, Quinton said they can use green options like linear parks that can meander through populated areas, retaining mature trees where possible and greening areas. roofs and facades.

The researchers hope their study will be used to make urban green spaces more equitable, especially given the vital role plants will play in mitigating heat waves and weather events. The urban forest also improves mental health, benefits stormwater management and provides recreation.

Victoria