Urban green spaces, participatory governance, and urban justice: the case study of Neerpede, Brussels

This thesis analyzes the dynamics of urban green space (UGS) planning in the Brussels-Capital region, with a specific focus on the case study of the Neerpede neighborhood. Considering how UGSs play a key role in climate resilience and social cohesion in cities, it analyzes how the lack of a participatory approach in urban planning can amplify socio-environmental conflicts. In particular, it is argued how the absence of active inclusion of the Nerpede community has contributed to tensions between residents, institutions, and other stakeholders. The methodology is based on participatory ethnography and includes semi-structured interviews and spatial analysis of the area. The results highlighted the limitations of top-down processes in urban green space management and, in addition, demonstrated how participatory processes can foster equitable and sustainable management of UGSs, promoting principles of urban justice and mitigating negative environmental and social impacts. In conclusion, the implications offer insights applicable in other urban contexts in both the Brussels region and other European cities.