Behind greenspace provision: Stakeholders’ perceptions of the co-production of urban parks in Beijing

Abstract

Studies on greenspace planning and governance acknowledge the importance of co-production because stakeholders’ perceptions of and commitments to their involvement determine the processes and outcomes. However, little is known about how participants characterize the co-production process. This paper explores the convergent and divergent perceptions among multiple greenspace co-producers using the Q-method. Data were collected from 36 participants who ranked 41 statements relating to stakeholder roles, resources, and approaches in co-producing urban parks in Beijing, China. Data analysis involved the computation and interpretation of factor scores. The findings reveal five shared perceptions among co-producers based on their underlying values rather than professional roles: optimists, decentralists, mediators, elitists, and pessimists. Governmental and non-governmental actors reach a consensus on information-sharing, empowerment, and incorporation of local knowledge. It reflects the strong endorsement for greenspace co-production in Beijing, primarily driven by normative motivations, including genuine participation, empowerment, and transparency. Willingness to co-produce, mutual trust, and flexible management were more important than resource inputs. The government is mainly perceived as the decision-maker while it is anticipated to organize the co-production. Citizens are perceived as potential mobilizers and partners. NGOs are expected to play an intermediary role. Stakeholders could better support greenspace co-production if organizers prioritize consensus-seeking, involvement of intermediaries, and stakeholder interests and views.