(In)Visible factors affecting people in the spatial appropriation process of urban green spaces in Brazil

Abstract The importance of green areas in urban centers is related to the environmental quality and the sustainable development of these spaces, as well as the desirable interdisciplinary perspective. In addition to their ecological and microclimate functions, urban green spaces contribute to the establishment of a relationship between the environment and human beings, with the potential of stimulating development of sense of place. This study aims to present possible aspects involved in the process of spatial human appropriation in urban green spaces. Squares in Aracaju were the bases for observations of human behavior, which were related to spatial features. The results have revealed that, along with microclimate aspects, spatial composition, and vegetation (presence or absence), other aspects were related to the appropriation process of squares, such as decision-making based on prejudgment, exposure to risks, differentiated perceptions, and sense of vulnerability. Therefore, the qualitative, spatial, and cognitive pieces of information presented may contribute to improve the relationship between humans and environment and, consequently the appropriation of urban green spaces.