An Assessment of the Green Space Access of the Finnish Forest Suburb Model Using the 3-30-300 Rule: Green Space Access in Kaukajärvi, Tampere

Abstract

Over half of the global population lives in urban environments, a figure that continues to increase. While urban living has its advantages, it also poses challenges, particularly regarding limited access to green space. Green spaces are vital for sustainable urban environments, offering climate resilience, improved public health, and economic benefits by mitigating heat, reducing pollution, enhancing biodiversity, and fostering community. However, in dense urban settings, equitable green space access is not guaranteed, as marginalized groups often reside in areas with limited access. Ensuring sufficient and equal access to green space is essential. The 3-30-300 rule aims to address this by recommending at least three visible trees per residence, a neighborhood canopy cover of 30%, and a park within 300 meters of each residence.

Finland, including Tampere, is no exception to urbanization trends, but it benefits from extensive green spaces. Despite guidelines similar to the 3-30-300 rule, little public research assesses green space access in Finnish cities. This study addresses this gap by evaluating green space access in Kaukajärvi, a residential neighborhood in Tampere. Kaukajärvi was selected because it aligns with the Finnish forest suburb model and is part of a development program, offering valuable insights into both green access and model-based planning principles.

This thesis examines the 3-30-300 rule in Kaukajärvi by analysing Geographic Information System data on tree canopy coverage, residential buildings, and the path distances between residences and parks. Results indicate that 98.8% of residential buildings can view three or more trees, canopy cover ranges from 37-43%, and 95-100% of buildings are within 300 meters of green space. These findings demonstrate the potential of the 3-30-300 rule as a guideline for Finnish suburbs, although more central areas may struggle to meet its standards. Additionally, the Finnish forest suburb model’s integration of nature into suburban areas highlights the potential for balancing urban density with environmental sustainability. Further research is essential to adapt the model’s principles to modern suburban development, ensuring equitable green space access and supporting well-being in an increasingly urbanized world.

The study concludes that the 3-30-300 rule is effective for ensuring green space access in Finnish suburbs like Kaukajärvi. However, adapting these principles for denser areas is essential. Further research is recommended to learn from the Finnish forest suburb model to support equitable green access, public health, and sustainability in urbanizing regions.