Nexus Between Ecosystem Services Provision and Socio-Economic Variables: A Pathway for Equitable Planning

The rapid expansion of urban areas exacerbates environmental degradation and deepens socioeconomic disparities, putting pressure on marginalised communities. A key manifestation of this imbalance is the unequal distribution of ecosystem services (ES), which are essential benefits that ecosystems provide to human well-being. Access to services like green spaces, cooling effects, and clean air is often concentrated in wealthier neighbourhoods, while lower-income populations face limited availability and greater risks. These differences result from economic stratification, spatial segregation, and urban planning choices shaping development and population distribution. Addressing them requires shifting traditional planning approaches and implementing comprehensive evaluation frameworks. This research proposes a methodology that integrates ES and socio-economic variables into urban planning, tested in several Italian cities, showing high adaptability and replicability. Results define criteria and performance standards that support Nature-Based Solutions, enhancing ecological connectivity and access to green and blue infrastructure. Targeted policies can prioritise investments in underserved areas, steering cities toward more inclusive, resilient, and environmentally just futures.