Urban centres are among the most vulnerable geographical locations for the impacts of climate change. Strengthening the green infrastructures of these urban areas is therefore increasingly...Show moreUrban centres are among the most vulnerable geographical locations for the impacts of climate change. Strengthening the green infrastructures of these urban areas is therefore increasingly important, as this contributes to their climate resilience. For the city of Leiden, as of many other Dutch cities, public space that can be used for greening initiatives is scarce due to urbanisation processes. The private urban gardens of Leiden can provide a solution for this. Many gardens in this cities are currently ‘grey’. Understanding why would provide valuable information for its policy makers. Therefore this study explored the behavioural motives behind the gardens of Leiden and answered the question: ‘why does a garden in Leiden looks like it does’. Next to that this study also researched the relationship between perceived impact and adaptation behaviour. The data for this study was collected through an online survey in which 67 garden owners of Leiden participated. The data gave insight on the behaviour and motives of these garden owners. It showed that green in a garden is often considered important, yet most garden owners had or wanted their garden (partially) tilled. A frequent motive given for this was the functionality of tilling for the use of a garden. Furthermore the data showed a moderately positive correlation between perceived impact of a garden on climate adaptation and the amount of green in a garden. Further research should examine the predictor in this relationship.Show less
