SERVICIOS ECOSISTÉMICOS DEL ARBOLADO URBANO

Servicios ecosistémicos prestados por el arbolado urbano en espacios públicos en Medellín, Colombia.

Abstract

Urban trees offer, in addition to their aesthetic and ornamental function, a variety of fundamental ecosystem services. This study focused on evaluating these services in public spaces in Medellín, Colombia. Using i-Tree eco, ArcGis and the "4 in 1" environmental meter, services such as thermal regulation, regulation of runoff and evapotranspiration, retention and reduction of atmospheric pollutants and noise were quantified. The results highlight the significant contribution of urban trees in reducing temperature and improving climatic comfort in public spaces. Although the findings on the function as a noise barrier were inconclusive, the importance of trees in the capture of pollutants, oxygen production and regulation of runoff is highlighted. These results reinforce the idea that trees in urban ecosystems are essential for sustainable land management and optimizing the quality of life in urban environments.