Assessing the Impact of Urban Green Spaces on Local Biodiversity in Riverside City

Thesis Abstract

Urban green spaces (UGS) are increasingly recognized as vital components of sustainable city planning due to their potential to enhance biodiversity and improve ecological resilience within urban environments. However, the extent to which such green areas in Riverside City contribute to supporting native biodiversity remains underexplored, particularly in light of rapid urbanization and ecological pressures. This study aims to assess the impact of UGS on local biodiversity in Riverside City, with specific objectives to quantify species diversity in selected green spaces, evaluate the quality and structure of habitats, identify key factors influencing biodiversity, and propose strategies to optimize biodiversity conservation within urban planning frameworks. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative surveys of flora and fauna, spatial analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and qualitative interviews with stakeholders such as urban planners and environmental managers. The study population comprises 15 designated green spaces across Riverside City, selected through stratified random sampling to ensure representativeness of various types of urban green areas, including parks, community gardens, and roadside green buffers. A sample size of 300 vegetation and wildlife observations will be collected over a 12-month period, supplemented by 20 semi-structured interviews with practitioners involved in green space management. Quantitative data on species richness and abundance will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA to compare biodiversity across different types of green spaces, and multiple regression analysis to identify significant environmental predictors such as vegetation heterogeneity, canopy cover, and human disturbance levels. Spatial data will be processed using GIS tools to assess spatial distribution patterns and habitat connectivity, while qualitative data from stakeholder interviews will undergo thematic analysis to elucidate perceptions and management practices influencing biodiversity outcomes. The study anticipates finding a positive correlation between the presence of structurally diverse habitats and levels of native species richness, with parks and well-maintained green buffers supporting higher biodiversity compared to neglected or overly urbanized green areas. Moreover, the results are expected to highlight critical factors such as habitat continuity, plant species composition, and disturbance regimes that significantly impact biodiversity support in urban settings. These findings will fill a notable gap in current literature concerning empirical evidence on urban biodiversity in middle-income cities like Riverside City, and will contribute to the theoretical understanding of island biogeography and ecosystem resilience theories in an urban context. The research aims to develop a conceptual model linking green space characteristics and biodiversity outcomes, offering a practical tool for urban planners and conservation practitioners. The study underscores the importance of designing green spaces that incorporate ecological principles to enhance biodiversity conservation amidst urban growth. It concludes with recommendations for integrating biodiversity considerations into urban planning policies, promoting habitat connectivity, and adopting sustainable management practices that favor native species. The findings will serve as a baseline for future longitudinal studies and inform policy development aimed at fostering resilient urban ecosystems. Overall, this research advances understanding of how urban green space design and management can effectively promote biodiversity, ultimately contributing to healthier, more sustainable urban environments.