Urban greening in Ivano-frankivsk: ecological status and prospects for sustainable development

Abstract

The article provides an analytical assessment of the current state of urban greening in Ivano-Frankivsk (Ukraine) within the framework of ecological sustainability and climate change adaptation. Particular attention is devoted to the functional significance of green areas in regulating the urban microclimate, improving air quality, maintaining biodiversity, and contributing to the overall well-being of the urban population. The analysis emphasizes the role of green areas in shaping a favorable microclimate, improving air quality, preserving biodiversity, and enhancing overall well-being. Key challenges include rapid urbanization, climate-related risks, and insufficient maintenance of existing vegetation. Although the average green space per resident exceeds 18 m²—significantly higher than the World Health Organization’s minimum recommendation of 9 m²—the spatial distribution of green infrastructure remains uneven, with central and peripheral districts experiencing significant deficits. The methodology combines a review of scientific literature and municipal reports, GIS-based spatial mapping of green zones, and a comparative analysis of national and international practices of green inventory. Findings reveal that urban green areas—including parks, river buffer strips, and small public gardens—deliver critical ecosystem services: mitigating the urban heat island effect, increasing humidity, filtering air pollutants, and supporting local biodiversity. At the same time, several issues were identified, such as unauthorized tree cutting, uncontrolled pruning, insufficient planting in high-density districts, and low climate adaptability of certain species. Special attention is given to the potential of digital tree cadastres, which are already operational in several European and Ukrainian cities. These systems enhance transparency in green space management, prevent illegal logging, optimize the selection of climate-resilient species, and promote community engagement. Strategic directions for sustainable development include creating ecological corridors between major parks, promoting vertical greening and green roofs, expanding the use of native tree species, and restoring riparian vegetation. The study concludes that combining digital innovation, adaptive planning, and participatory governance can significantly strengthen the ecological resilience of Ivano-Frankivsk and ensure effective adaptation to climate change.