Economic Value of Green Spaces in Temperature Regulation in Residential Plots of Dar es Salaam City

Abstract

The benefits of green spaces in terms of temperature regulation in urban areas are well known. However, the monetary values of green space in temperature regulation are not known. The main objective of this study was to assess economic value of green space in temperature cooling in residential plots of Dar es Salaam City. The study employed focused document review, interview, validation meeting, group discussions and in-depth interviews using structured questionnaires to collect data.The study revealed that investing 1m² of residential greenery can save cooling energy amounting to TZS 443 per year (TZS 37 per month).Households, which did not have trees shaded environment in residential plots incurred a cost of TZS 72,384 (31USD) per month. This implies that, investing more in green spaces will result in savings on costs related to absence of green spaces. The avoided cost could be used for other developmental activities. In order to maximize economic value of green spaces in temperature regulation. It is recommended that, residents should select the right green spaces, right species, right location within residential plot and adopt designs that support green space functioning.

 

Key word: Economic value, Green space, temperature regulation