Evaluating the Spatial-Temporal Impact of Urban Nature on Urban Vitality in Vancouver: A Social Media and GPS Data Approach

Abstract

Natural elements in urban environments enhance livability and health, strengthening urban vitality. However, existing research has primarily focused on physical indicators, with limited attention paid to the joint influence of behavioral and perceptual dimensions on urban vitality. To address this gap, this study integrates a spatiotemporal analytical framework encompassing three dimensions: natural elements, human perception, and activity diversity. Focusing on Vancouver, we utilized smartphone-GPS and social media data from 2018 to 2023 to explore temporal (weekdays vs. weekends) and spatial dimensions. Using machine learning techniques (Google vision, K-means and Sentiment analysis) on multivariate social media data, and we also analyzed changes in activity diversity over time. We assessed the multidimensional influences on urban vitality using the Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression (GTWR) model. Our results show that during the pandemic, attention to nature and outdoor activities increased significantly, while cultural and social activities and transportation initially decreased but quickly recovered. Sentiment scores, natural elements, and human activity preferences significantly influenced urban vitality during COVID-19, with notable spatiotemporal heterogeneity. The pandemic intensified residents' reliance on natural spaces and green transportation, altering the spatial distribution of urban vitality. These findings provide a basis for optimizing natural spaces and sustainable transportation planning in future urban development.