A systematic review of urban green spaces affecting subjective well-being: an explanation of their complex mechanisms

As global urban development intensifies swiftly, the correlation between the ecological setting and human welfare has grown more pronounced. The influence of urban greenery on individual welfare, as a crucial aspect of urban life, has been the focus of numerous academics. However, there are inconsistent research findings on the complex mechanisms by which urban green space affects subjective well-being. This research aimed to investigate discrepancies in subjective well-being across countries and regions, assess the influence of urban green areas on subjective well-being, and clarify the various roles urban flora plays in this regard. This research introduces a random effects meta-analysis involving 51 studies (reconciled mean N = 28252), employing meta-analyzing structural equation modeling (MASEM) to confirm the variances in the influence of various intermediary factors linking urban green spaces and personal well-being. The meta-analytical results revealed a notable positive correlation between urban plant life and the personal joy of inhabitants, r = 0. 322, 95 % CI = [0. 219–0. 417]. Analysis via structural equation revealed that local community solidarity, air contamination, and exercise partially mediated the outcome, emphasizing the greater importance of physical activity. The research results show that the presence of urban green areas markedly influences the subjective health of its residents, with neighborhood unity, air pollution, and physical activities being key channels influencing this well-being. Therefore, advancing these areas with landscape planning and management is crucial for boosting their perceived overall wellness.