Assessing public perceptions of the cultural ecosystem services waterfront spaces provide along the Huangpu River in Shanghai, China, in support of urban waterfront planning and design

Urban waterfront green space is a critical component of urban ecosystems and can provide various types of cultural ecosystem services (CESs). In this study, the CESs of six waterfront green spaces with different planned functions in different areas along the Huangpu River were assessed, and a framework of CES types applicable to the assessment of waterfront green spaces was proposed. Based on an investigation of the basic indicators of different waterfront green spaces and the differences in planning in the regions where they are located, we explored the factors affecting the public's perception of CESs. We found that a waterfront green space with a clear theme and amusement facilities with special features improved public perceptions of CESs. Improved water accessibility and many winding walkways can increase the diversity of outdoor activities. The discrepancy between public perceptions of CESs and the CESs that city managers hope waterfront green spaces to provide in urban planning may be due to a lack of a detailed introduction to facilities for public within green spaces. We suggest promoting the public perception of CESs provided by waterfront green spaces through improved water accessibility and enhanced descriptions of their facilities. The results and suggestions generated from this study offer insights into the future planning and design of urban waterfront green spaces.