Urban forest pattern and tree canopy cover assessment in Tehran, Iran: A landscape ecology approach

Document Type : Research article

Authors

1 Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Forestry and Forest Economics, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran

2 Prof., Department of Forestry and Forest Economics, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran

3 Prof., Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran

4 M.Sc. Student, Department of Arid and Mountainous Regions Reclamation, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Urban forestry involves the management and planning of urban tree-covered spaces and forests within city boundaries and plays a crucial role in improving quality of life and urban livability. The importance of urban green spaces, especially in densely populated and compact urban areas, lies in their ability to reduce air pollution, regulate temperature, mitigate urban heat island effects, and enhance citizens’ mental health. Given the rapid pace of urbanization and the degradation of green spaces, evaluating the distribution and spatial layout of urban green spaces, particularly in older and central areas such as districts 10, 11, and 12 of Tehran, Iran, is essential. This study aimed to identify urban tree canopy layout patterns, determine green space per capita, and propose strategies to improve the current conditions in these districts.
Methodology: Tree canopy patch maps were prepared for the study areas using high-resolution Google Earth imagery. ArcGIS software and landscape metrics were used to analyze and model the spatial patterns of green space patches. Three types of green space layout patterns were defined: single-tree (isolated trees in residential areas), linear (trees along streets and sidewalks), and clumped (groups of trees in parks and public spaces). Population data for districts and sub-districts were obtained from Tehran Municipality records, and a green space per capita map was developed accordingly. Numerical analyses were conducted using Fragstats software to calculate metrics such as class area (CA), number of patches (NP), landscape shape index (LSI), and mean nearest neighbor distance (ENN_MN). The accuracy of the maps was validated through field observations, resulting in an overall accuracy of 98.5% and a kappa index of 96.12%.
Results: The results revealed that linear layouts occupied the largest area in all three districts, with the highest area recorded in district 11 (103.48 hectares). In contrast, clumped layouts covered smaller areas, mainly in parks and public spaces, and were least prominent in district 10. Single-tree layouts, despite having a greater number of patches, contributed a smaller total area and were primarily observed in high-density residential neighborhoods. In terms of green space per capita, district 12 had the highest value (7.53 m²), whereas district 10 had the lowest (2.16 m²). This disparity highlights significant inequalities in access to green spaces across districts and sub-districts. Landscape metrics analysis demonstrated that LSI and CA are effective tools for assessing the dispersion and complexity of green space patches. In densely populated areas, green space patches tended to be smaller and more fragmented.
Conclusion: The study concluded that linear layouts, due to their feasibility for implementation along streets and public pathways, are the most suitable option for high-density areas such as districts 10, 11, and 12. Linear layouts can improve air quality, enhance visual aesthetics, and provide shade in urban environments. Meanwhile, clumped layouts, concentrated in parks and gardens, offer greater ecological benefits and are better suited for creating social spaces. For districts with limited green spaces, such as district 10, the development of small local parks and the use of vacant lands for tree planting are recommended. Improving access to green spaces in these areas can reduce environmental inequalities and enhance residents’ quality of life. This research provides a practical framework for urban planning and offers actionable strategies for achieving balanced development of urban green spaces.

Keywords

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References

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