Greenspace planning and assessment using the normalized difference vegetation index in neighbourhoods next to Riga freeport, Latvia

Adherence to Latvia's minimum free area greenspace indicators could significantly reduce greenery in Riga's neighborhoods, particularly in non-residential zones and recreational areas like forest parks. A study using the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) method found that strict implementation of these regulations might decrease natural areas by up to one-third in some cases. The NDVI approach proved effective for monitoring urban vegetation cover and assessing spatial development at a neighborhood level, offering valuable insights for greenspace planning. However, current zoning regulations in Riga hinder systematic application of this method due to variations at the parcel level.

Āboliņa, K., Jakovels, D., & Zīlāns, A. (2025). Greenspace planning and assessment using the normalized difference vegetation index in neighbourhoods next to Riga freeport, Latvia. Landscape Architecture and Art, 26(26), 9. https://doi.org/10.22616/j.landarchart.2025.26.01