Conceptual design models for social values of urban forests [in Sundsvall]

Abstract: There is an ongoing urban development process in Sundsvall and the proper provision of the social values of urban forests that can meet public needs is now one of the issues for the municipality to deal with in planning. Moreover, the recent focus on the rehabilitative aspects of forests in human health has become a strong motivation for the municipality to invest in providing sufficient and proper networks of greenery over the city. Therefore, to provide such values for establishing a sustainable connection between nature and urban life, studying the social values of urban forests and the municipality’s objectives is considered essential. This study aims to develop a deeper understanding of the social values of urban forests in everyday urban life and apply that knowledge to propose a series of conceptual design models that can meet those social values through designing urban forests. In order to reach the aim, multiple methods have been employed to collect data. Data were collected through literature studies and discussions on urban forests, studying forest policy documents and the relevant theories behind urban forest design as well as studying comprehensive plans of Sundsvall. Moreover, conducting online focus group meetings with some of the representatives of Sundsvall municipality could contribute to learning about their green visions and green strategies for the city until 2040. The study resulted in multiple outcomes including finding the most essential objectives that Sundsvall municipality seeks to meet the public needs, learning about the social values of urban forests and their contribution to urban life, and more importantly, proposing conceptual design models [for Sundsvall] that can provide the desired social values within the city.