Many factors contribute to Blue Space quality and protection which is directly linked within the system to other variables through BS accessibility and use.
Blue Spaces Safety is directly linked to policy enforcement, quality and protection, facilities and management and use and accessibility.
Facilities and Maintenance relates to what facilities are available and they are managed.
Blue Space Use and accessibility is central to the Blue Space map, contributing to the health of the Blue Space but also its users.
“Use and accessibility” is central to the map and acts as what is termed a “MIMO” – a multi input and multi output element with many factors contributing to it.
Physical and mental health are important contributors. “Use and accessibility” augments social benefits (e.g. opportunities of socialization, which was particularly evident during the Covid-19 pandemic) and improves social networks, leading to increased numbers of companion” to perform different types of activities, which in the end stimulates the place usage. Companions in tern links back to “Safety”. Living space connectivity increases “Use and accessibility”. This dynamic could be very powerful and highlights the great role of local authorities and communities in protecting Blue Spaces. However, at the same time, this dynamic may exacerbate conflicts between Blue Space users and other stakeholders (e.g. private land owners, planners, car parking owners etc.), when different interests collide.
Within this section the role of community and its links to mental health, overall health, good and bad effects becomes evident. Community building raises voice & advocacy and improves knowledge sharing, which in turn stimulates the development of social networks and promotes companionship. In general, the increase in representation of various voices and the creation of the need in different advocates (advocacy creation) support community interests. This has a strong enabling effect in raising the community voice, and positively affects Blue Spaces and safety of their use. This Loop uncovers deep ontological links between physical environment and community strength. These variables also positively affect mental health. It means that stronger communities around Blue Spaces lead to better overall mental health, which in the end strengthens Blue Space-related communities and positively affects Blue Space quality. The importance of Heritage is also acknowledged, this Loop uncovers a deep connection between communities (being part of Blue Space culture) and heritage, which has a very positive effect on Blue Space usage. Heritage also links to the formation of a respectful culture around Blue Spaces, when users learn an appropriate code of conduct and respect.
