The Human Need for Green Space: Urban Parks in Shanghai, China.

An increasing awareness of the human need for nature and nature-like places is growing as more people move to urban areas. The issue is of particular importance in polluted areas, such as Shanghai, China. This study addresses the human/nature intersection within metropolitan green spaces in Shanghai. The researcher collected observational data in fifteen urban parks regarding design, flora and citizen utilization. The study focusses on: 1) Globalization in relation to park structure and function; such as lawns, flowers, and water features serving as intersections of Western and Asian landscapes, and 2) Different generations’ activities in these public green spaces; specifically, exercise, dance, matchmaking, music, and games. The results show that although western and Asian traditions intertwine in planting and park layout, cultural differences remain for park use. Furthermore, while parks are still central for older people and young children, the middle generations are becoming less connected to these green spaces.