Health Promoting Qualities Framework for Blue and Green Landscapes: Applying Perceived Restorativeness on a Case Study of Nile Riverfront in Greater Cairo Region

Abstract

Blue and green landscapes contribute to the quality of life of cities in different positive ways. It has environmental, social, and visual benefits that affect directly the physical and psychological health of city residents in one way or another, in addition to providing ecological benefits for their surroundings. There are plenty of previous studies that investigated the different health characteristics of blue and green spaces. However, there is still a need for more interdisciplinary studies to measure the long-term effect of blue and green landscapes together on the health of their users. Therefore, the presented study aims to investigate and measure the direct impact of blue and green landscapes on the health and wellbeing using Perceived sensory dimensions (PSDs) and perceived restorativeness scales (PRS). The research adopts both qualitative and quantitative analysis as a methodological approach. It follows a methodology that consists of three parts. First a critical review of relevant literature focusing on different theories related to health qualities of landscapes. Then the second part is identifying different health-promoting aspects and qualities of waterfront green areas. Finally, investigating the concluded qualities empirically and their impact on the health of its users using a case study research design for selected areas on the riverfront of the Nile in Greater Cairo Region (GCR). Accordingly, the study develops a framework to adopt and assess the health benefits of riverfront green areas. The work points out the potential of blue and green landscapes for achieving restorative qualities and enhancing health of residents in contemporary cities.