A Systematic Review of Factors Influencing the Vitality of Public Open Spaces: A Novel Perspective Using Social–Ecological Model (SEM)

A number of studies address the spatial planning, architectural design, and management of public open spaces (POSs) to curb the overuse of spaces to create high-quality spaces. Little attention has been paid to the problem of underutilization of POSs. Therefore, this paper undertakes a comprehensive analysis of the literature on the factors that influence the vitality of POSs, proposing Bronfenbrenner’s social–ecological model (SEM) as a conceptual framework. In this work, we conducted a systematic literature search using the PRISMA method to screen and select articles from three major databases (Science Web, Elsevier, and Scopus). Thirty-four journal articles from 2000 to 2022 were selected for the final review. This study systematically identifies and classifies a set of variables related to the vitality of POSs and develops an SEM-based framework of factors that influence the vitality of POSs. The framework examines the influence of individual user characteristics, the social environment, the physical environment, and the political environment on the vitality of POSs. Finally, strategies to improve the vitality of POSs are proposed: (1) POSs’ optimization and promotion strategies should be developed gradually, starting from the most basic needs, stage by stage; (2) To improve the vitality of POSs, we should consider both the general public and special groups; (3) Through the synergistic effect between social, material, and policy environments, the comprehensive improvement of POSs’ vitality is achieved. This study provides the latest insights into the vitality of POSs and makes a theoretical contribution by conceptualizing the SEM framework and summarizing the influencing factors at different levels. The study of these factors should also have practical implications, as the results will ultimately provide improvement strategies to help policy-makers and local communities to effectively and sustainably improve the vitality of POSs.