Shifting Realities
Asynchronous - Online Only
Correlation between Gentrification and Sociospatial Segregation in Monterrey, Mexico: A Mixed Methods Approach View Digital Media
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Oscar Fdo. Mendoza Lozano, Carlos Estuardo Aparicio-Moreno
This research considers the correlation between gentrification and socio spatial segregation in contemporary urban environments, using as a reference the case of Monterrey, the main metropolitan area in northern Mexico. The theoretical framework establishes a question of the definition of both constructs. Polysemous concepts, which describe complex social, economic, territorial and demographic relationships, the definition of gentrification and socio spatial segregation presents different shades depending on the cultural context in which the problem is addressed. In that way, the reality of the Latin-American city and, specifically, the case of Monterrey, Mexico, has to be addressed specifically, from the theoretical and conceptual perspective, to the methodological application. Socioeconomical and demographic characteristics related to these phenomena call for the use of quantitative instruments. For this reason, a methodological approach is proposed, which involves the use of geographical mapping of social backwardness statistics, superimposed with a population rejuvenation index defined by zoning, as a means of considering income indexes which, because of security issues, are not available as open census data in Mexico. Nevertheless, besides statistical data and cold numbers, the consideration of subjectivity to measure the levels of perceived gentrification and segregation is equally important. From this perspective, a questionnaire as a scientifically validated qualitative instrument, as well as interpretation of mental maps, are used, as a means to approach the imaginaries of the citizens.
Designing Multifunctional Urban Green Spaces: An Inclusive Public Health Framework View Digital Media
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Andrew Lafrenz
Evidence of the wide range of health benefits associated with the use of urban green space (UGS) continues to grow. Despite this evidence, many UGS designs do not adopt a community-inclusive approach that utilizes evidence-based public health strategies to maximize potential health benefits. This research focused on testing a multidisciplinary, community-involved public health framework to drive the UGS design process. This study uses community feedback and evidence-based public health practices to promote physical health, psychological wellbeing, and social cohesion by creating a multifunctional UGS that enhances nature therapy, natural play, and sports and recreation. Community health assessment data (236 survey responses), community forum and survey feedback (157 survey responses), local urban green space inventory assessment, and environmental assessment and impact data were analyzed to develop a design plan that maximize the greatest potential health benefits for the greatest proportion of the population. Community health data indicated a strong relationship between the availability of places to be physically active in the community and higher ratings of mental (aOR = 1.80) and physical (aOR = 1.49) health. The creation and utilization of the proposed community-inclusive and public health-focused framework resulted in a UGS design that prioritized the needs of the community and provided evidence-informed strategies to improve the health of local residents. This paper provides unique insight into the application of a framework that promotes a more health-focused and functional approach to UGS design.
From Lawn to Biodiversity: Producing Ecosystem Services in Suburban Areas View Digital Media
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Ana Karinna Hidalgo, Oscar Zapata
The production of ecosystem services is essential for cities to adapt to climate change in the Canadian Prairies. Practices that reduce water consumption, control extreme temperatures, protect urban wildlife, and promote physical and mental health will be fundamental to preserving individual and community well-being. Our study identifies the challenges and opportunities to create a market for suburban ecosystem services in Calgary, AB, and Saskatoon, SK, by taking advantage of the potential of suburban areas to become nature-based assets. We look at the benefits and costs of transforming front yards from lawns into native/pollinator front gardens, which constitute notable producers of ecosystem services related to health and environmental quality. We determine the potential of suburban areas to produce ecosystem services and the spatial influence of the benefits of native/pollinator gardens. Knowing the challenges of sustaining ecosystem service markets in the long run, we also propose to study the feasibility of a market for suburban ecosystem services by identifying the obstacles (i.e., opportunity costs) that producers (homeowners) face and the economic values that users give to these services. We adopt an innovative and interdisciplinary approach consisting of spatial analysis based on geographic information systems, preference elicitation to identify producers’ challenges, experimental design to estimate users’ willingness to pay for ecosystem services, and cost-benefit analysis to determine market feasibility. The research findings will inform the design of urban policies and planning for adaptation to climate change and preserving well-being in cities in the Canadian Prairies.
