Contribution of green spaces to the well-being of populations - a case study in Vila Real

Abstract

The concept of health is currently understood in a positive way, stressing the importance of social and personal resources, as well as physical activities (OTTAWA CHARTER, WHO, 1986). It is also considered that health can be promoted through strategies and actions not exclusively, nor primarily biomedical, targeted to a wide range of social determinants of health (OTTAWA CHARTER, WHO, 1986). Green spaces are now seen as leisure promoting, leading to the development of various activities such as games, sports and social interaction, thus contributing to the population well-being. This study evaluates the contribution of urban green spaces of Vila Real in improving the quality of life of its population. It assesses the two most important UGS of the city, the Corgo Park and Florestal Park.