Multicriteria Evaluation of Green Infrastructure for Public Spaces in Urban Areas: Hydrological Functionality and Ecosystem Services.

Abstract

This study proposes an innovative methodology for evaluating and selecting green infrastructure (GI) in urban areas with semi-arid conditions, employing an adapted version of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). This systematic approach facilitates the classification of various types of GI based on their capacity to manage water and provide ecosystem services (ES) tailored to specific environmental characteristics. The effectiveness of alternatives such as infiltrative gardens, infiltration trenches, and wetlands, among others, is analyzed to address critical challenges like water scarcity and flooding while ensuring their long-term viability through environmental and social benefits. The study emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach that considers both technical aspects and the social and cultural perceptions of communities, ensuring that implemented solutions are both accepted and effective. Adapting the AHP methodology to the specific characteristics of semi-arid climates establishes a framework that can be applied to other regions with similar conditions, thereby contributing to the development of resilient and sustainable cities on a global scale. The applicability of the methodology fosters a sense of connection and shared purpose among urban planners, environmental engineers, and policymakers worldwide. Moreover, the importance of promoting community participation in the design of GI is highlighted to enhance social equity and optimize the use of natural resources, ensuring the effective integration of GI in urban planning at a global scale.