Biodiversity & Health: a combined approach
In cities, open spaces are often designed to either provide opportunities for biodiversity OR human recreation, health and wellness. With a new quantitative method developed by Ecosulis, it is possible to assess and consider both biodiversity and human health when designing open spaces.
Biodiversity & Health: baseline assessment
Ecosulis under took a baseline assessment of the park from a biodiversity and health perspective, and then used this information to identify where improvements could be made. This included identifying which improvements would provide both biodiversity and health enhancements, as these would be the most efficient measures to incorporate into a small parkland area.
Result: current health status
Regarding the current health status, Kennington Park had a satisfactory score on the criteria “Community Initiatives” and “Accessibility”. The largest improvements could be made in the categories “Environment” and “Mental Wellbeing”. In addition, although the “Activity Zones” scored relatively well, there are still many improvements that could be made in this aspect.
Result: park improvements
Improvements include creating wildflower meadows within areas of the parkland to increase species diversity and opportunities for pollinators. This also improves the amenity value of the park and will benefit human mental health. Other measures include the incorporation of interpretation boards, as well as natural trail areas for human physical wellbeing.
