URBAN PUBLIC GREEN AREAS AND ITS RELATION TO IMPROVEMENT OF QUALITY OF LIFE: A CASE STUDY IN A URBAN ECOLOGICAL PARK IN THE CITY OF FORTALEZA (CEARÁ STATE, BRAZIL)

Abstract

This study aimed at identify the functions of Coco River Ecological Park as urban green area of Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, and examined how these functions contribute to increase the quality of life of park users. This research interviewed 64 people about the importance of the Coco River Ecological Park. According to the answers provided, it was confirmed the significance of urban green areas for a good quality of life. The most important items were: “sports and physical activities”; “public security”; “parks, squares and green areas”; “contact with nature”; “quality of education”; “access to potable water”; “success in interpersonal relationships”; “good family relationship”; “professional achievement”; and “adequate dwelling house”. This study also revealed the disappointment of the interviewees with the number of green areas in Fortaleza, but the Coco River Ecological Park was highlighted among the other green areas available as a desired space inside the city.