Environment and Well-Being: Quality of Life Assessment Using the Vegetation Index in a Neighborhood of a Small–Medium-Sized Brazilian City

Abstract

Urban vegetation plays a key role in promoting health and environmental balance in cities. This study analyzed the relationship between green areas and human well-being in the Alvorada neighborhood of Guanambi, Bahia, Brazil. Using an ecological study design, vegetation was assessed through the Vegetation Coverage Index (VCI), percentage of vegetation coverage (PVC), aerial and satellite imagery, and population density data. Field visits were also conducted to validate remote observations. The results revealed that the VCI in the study area was significantly below the levels recommended by the World Health Organization (12 m²/inhabitant), indicating a scarcity of green areas. This deficiency is associated with reduced thermal comfort and potential negative impacts on residents’ physical and mental health. The findings reinforce the urgent need for sustainable urban planning in alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 11, and 13, highlighting vegetation as a determinant of urban quality of life.

1. Introduction

Traditional medicine is based on treating health complications. However, modern medicine has advanced to promote quality of life through preventive measures, emphasizing the well-being of the population and the connection to leisure, green environments, and pleasant climates. These aspects are highlighted and reinforce the finding that many diseases and discomforts are derived from excessive heat due to the absence of green areas.

According to the literature, quality of life encompasses all factors that affect an individual’s existence, including physical, social, emotional, and economic aspects [1,2,3]. However, this study specifically focuses on health-related quality of life, which assesses aspects directly linked to an individual’s health, excluding economic and political factors [4]. This research explores, through one of the parameters used in the project, the Vegetation Coverage Index (VCI) and its relationship with health-related quality of life, emphasizing the influence of vegetation on individuals’ well-being.

According to Josipovic and Ludwig [5], heat stress refers to the impact of ambient temperature on an individual’s physiological and psychological systems, representing the body’s response to prolonged exposure to high thermal conditions, resulting in the loss of water and salts. When the temperature reaches extreme levels that affect the human body’s ability to maintain homeothermy, it can trigger symptoms ranging from mild to moderate, such as dehydration, dizziness, nausea, and weakness.

Additionally, a study by Wahid et al. [6] indicates that high temperature levels can result in hormonal and neurotransmitter imbalances, leading to complications related to psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety. The discomfort caused by excessive heat is associated with changes in sleep quality, mood, increased irritability, and stress, negatively impacting mental health.

Given the presentations on climatic effects on health, the influence of green areas in urban centers and their relation to well-being stands out. This integrated approach values nature as an ally in promoting health, essential for sustainable development and the creation of healthy and resilient urban environments [7]. With the world undergoing rapid urban change [8] and an increasing number of people migrating to cities, it is necessary to design urban architecture that meets current needs, often at the expense of reducing green areas. In this context, there is a need for planning that promotes sustainability [9], adopting sustainable goals and shifting the global discourse to ensure human dignity and promote sustainable growth.

Green areas are spaces within urban environments dedicated to vegetation, landscaping, and nature preservation [10]. These areas include parks, squares, public gardens, and other spaces containing vegetation such as trees, shrubs, and flowers [11]. These spaces are socially, ecologically, scientifically, and culturally important as they offer places for social interaction, recreation, biodiversity preservation, and environmental sustainability, aiming to satisfy three primary objectives—ecological–environmental, aesthetic, and leisure [12]—thus contributing to the quality of life of people.

The beneficial effects of contact with nature have been widely documented, revealing significant positive impacts on human health. The presence of green areas is associated with greater longevity and reduced cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and mental health problems [13]. According to a study published in The Lancet Planetary Health [14], it is estimated that in 31 European countries, around 43,000 people die annually due to the lack of green areas. The study indicates that these deaths could be avoided if each city followed the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendations, suggesting that each citizen has access to a green space of 12 m² [15].

In Brazil, researchers from the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná (PUCPR) conducted a study involving 397 out of 399 municipalities in Paraná in 2021 and 2022. The study aimed to assess the impact of urban green infrastructure (UGI) on the population’s health, revealing that municipalities with more green areas have fewer hospitalizations for respiratory diseases [16]. The probable mechanisms behind these results include environmental factors such as temperature reduction, increased humidity, and particulate matter capture, all contributing to the protective physiological effects of green environments.

Evaluating vegetation coverage is an important factor in analyzing the population’s quality of life, as the presence of green spaces promotes balance in urban environments [17]. Thus, preserving and expanding these areas are important aspects to be developed in urban projects aimed at promoting sustainable development and a better quality of life for citizens [18].

However, climate change has led to long-term transformations in temperature and climate patterns, characterized by increased average global temperatures and changes in rainfall regimes [19]. The relationship between urbanization and climatic aspects is linked to the formation of heat islands, where intense urban development contributes to local temperature increases [20,21]. The presence of asphalt-paved surfaces prevents water absorption by the soil, contributing to heat accumulation and reduction in green areas for building construction [22].

It is worth noting that in areas with higher vegetation indices, a better quality of life is expected, with lower stress levels, better mental health, and greater overall satisfaction compared to areas with scarce vegetation [23]. A lesser-known fact is the psychological impact of high temperatures and their relation to increased aggression, as demonstrated by research from Iowa State University [24].

In this perspective, the UN, in 2015, launched the 2030 Agenda with 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 targets to promote global sustainable and inclusive development [7]. These goals cover a wide range of essential areas for humanity’s progress, including environmental protection, climate change, and sustainable natural resource management. Based on this, green areas in the agenda highlight the urgent need to protect and restore natural ecosystems, ensure biodiversity conservation, and promote development practices that respect environmental balance, ensuring the population’s health prosperity.

Additionally, UN-Habitat launched the New Urban Agenda, adopted during the Habitat III Conference in 2016, establishing guidelines for sustainable urban development, seeking inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities [25]. This agenda directly complements the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 3, 11, and 13, focusing on health, well-being, sustainable communities, and climate change [7]. Thus, the Urban Agenda and the UN 2030 Agenda [8] are initiatives that promote sustainable development and improved quality of life on a global scale. However, implementation requires collaboration between national and local governments to establish connections that promote progress in various sustainable development areas [26].

In view of this, one of the major issues in the relationship between humans and the environment is how territories are occupied during city construction. Inappropriate municipal growth has impacted the environment and the general well-being of the population [27], becoming one of the main challenges to achieving sustainable development. The lack of urban planning to value the resources provided by nature is evident [28], as the urbanization process did not consider the importance of green areas for the population. It is important to note that the criticism is not directed at the urbanization process itself but at how it was conducted, neglecting sustainable practices.

To implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is necessary to translate these objectives to the local reality of municipalities, as they are operational means to meet the 2030 Agenda targets [29]. Cities have the autonomy to incorporate and link targets according to local strategies and policies, objectively and concretely measuring aspects and concepts that may seem abstract on a global scale. Municipalities are key actors in achieving the SDGs, as they operate closer to local populations and can outline clear paths and visualize the dimensions of the challenges to be faced. Thus, by fragmenting responsibilities within municipalities, it is possible to involve various multisectoral partnerships, including politicians, academics, environmentalists, the private sector, and civil society (SDG Strategy), who can point out strategies and implement necessary actions to achieve the proposed goals.

Therefore, this topic has become a major concern for global entities such as the United Nations (UN), which includes climate change, health, and well-being in the 2030 Agenda improvement goals [7]. However, while many global studies highlight the importance of vegetation for well-being, the lack of local research leaves a gap in understanding how this relationship manifests in Guanambi-BA, emphasizing the need for an in-depth environmental investigation.

In this context, the study’s focus on the Alvorada neighborhood, characterized by the predominance of constructions and limited presence of green areas, raises important questions about the scarcity of vegetation and its possible influence on residents’ well-being. Therefore, in Guanambi’s territories, there is an urgent need to focus on specific spaces like the Alvorada neighborhood to better understand this dynamic and its implications for community health and quality of life.

Although there is substantial evidence on the benefits of green areas for the physical and mental health of the population, most studies focus on large urban centers in developed countries, while small and medium-sized cities—especially in semi-arid regions of Brazil—remain underexplored. Furthermore, there is a scarcity of analyses that objectively quantify urban vegetation cover using internationally recognized indicators, such as the Vegetation Coverage Index (VCI), in conjunction with public health parameters. In the specific case of the municipality of Guanambi-BA, and the Alvorada neighborhood, no prior studies were found that systematically investigate the relationship between urban vegetation, well-being, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This lack of local data hinders sustainable urban planning and the implementation of evidence-based public policies, which makes this study both original and socially relevant.

Given the above, this study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the green areas of the Alvorada neighborhood in Guanambi-BA through the interpretation of 2022 aerial photographs and the use of the Vegetation Coverage Index to analyze and quantify the neighborhood’s vegetation coverage. Additionally, it aimed to contribute to preventive medicine by providing support for quality-of-life development and collaboration for building sustainable urban communities.

2. Materials and Methods

The study analyses the broad and theoretical aspects that link environmental quality to population health. This approach method allowed for the application of these concepts to the defined study area, valuing local particularities and providing a more detailed and contextualized understanding of the specific situation of the Alvorada neighborhood.

The theoretical and methodological framework that supported the construction of this study reflects the following research question: to what extent does the Vegetation Coverage Index (VCI) in the Alvorada neighborhood contribute to the well-being of residents, considering environmental, social, and health indicators? Regarding the materials and methods used in this study, it was first necessary to divide the sections as follows: (a) definition of the study area—Alvorada neighborhood; (b) selection of methods relevant to this study—ecological study, with an assessment of the environmental context and its relationship with the assigned population; (c) delimitation of vegetation coverage indicators—according to the indices recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO)—the Vegetation Coverage Index (VCI) is below the expected level for the region; and d) selection of terms—VCI, PVI (Plant Coverage Index), and analysis of satellite images depicting the vegetation coverage of the study area.

2.1. Study Area

The municipality of Guanambi (Figure 1) is located in the southwestern region of the state of Bahia, positioned between the geographical coordinates 42°44′45″ to 42°48′41″ W and 14°11′40″ to 14°14′57″ S. According to the IBGE census [30], the municipality had a total of 84,481 residents, distributed across 57 neighborhoods [31]. The study area of this work corresponds to the Alvorada neighborhood (Figure 2), which, according to the demographic census from DataSUS in 2023, has an estimated population of 3948 inhabitants [32]. The area was defined considering the vegetation patterns found in this region, given the intense expansion of its territory with the emergence of many local businesses such as burger joints, supermarkets, barber shops, and others. Therefore, in addition to planning for recreation, there is a significant need to prioritize green areas that offer tranquility, air quality, and sustainability for residents and visitors.

In Brazil, healthcare is provided by the Unified Health System (SUS), which offers universal and free care to the entire population [33]. The structure of SUS is organized in a decentralized and hierarchical manner, with Basic Health Units (UBS) playing a fundamental role in this system. UBS are the preferred entry point for the health system, offering essential services in promotion, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation [34], understanding the community’s issues. Thus, this research project began by identifying this area, which is served by the Basic Health Unit Dr. Gileno Pereira Donato, frequented by students, facilitating data collection of the territory, as well as characterizing the population with a focus on their socio-environmental needs. The local situation was analyzed, and the research problem was established, considering the importance of green areas for health and the territorialization carried out by students.

Figure 1. Location of the city of Guanambi-BA and the surrounding municipalities that form the “Sertão Produtivo” identity territory. The inset map shows the territorial location within the state of Bahia and Brazil. (Source: Observatório) [35].

Figure 1. Location of the city of Guanambi-BA and the surrounding municipalities that form the “Sertão Produtivo” identity territory. The inset map shows the territorial location within the state of Bahia and Brazil. (Source: Observatório) [35].

Figure 1 depicts the Municipality of Guanambi in beige, outlining the city center in dark gray, the headquarters district where the present study was conducted. Guanambi is situated in the context of the Semi-Arid Productive Backlands, characterized by a hot and dry climate, with rainfall below 800 mm, and annual temperature averages exceeding 24 °C [36]. The predominant vegetation is caatinga, with patches of cerrado [37].

Figure 2. Territorial map of the Alvorada neighborhood in the city of Guanambi-BA, highlighting public squares. The varying shades of green represent differences in vegetation density, with darker areas indicating greater vegetation cover. Satellite imagery shows Praça do Ipiranga and Praça Antônio Alves de Araújo within the Alvorada neighborhood. (Source: Observatório) [38].

Figure 2. Territorial map of the Alvorada neighborhood in the city of Guanambi-BA, highlighting public squares. The varying shades of green represent differences in vegetation density, with darker areas indicating greater vegetation cover. Satellite imagery shows Praça do Ipiranga and Praça Antônio Alves de Araújo within the Alvorada neighborhood. (Source: Observatório) [38].

Figure 2 presents the target area of this research, the Alvorada neighborhood. This region is highly paved and commercially well developed; however, the lack of vegetation cover is notable given its territorial size, going against the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO). The scarcity of green areas and the high density of buildings result in an urban landscape that can be visually stressful and unwelcoming for residents. The absence of shade, leisure spaces, and communal areas limits options for outdoor activities, negatively affecting the physical and mental health of the local population.

Given this observation, the relevance of this study in the Alvorada neighborhood is underscored by the lack of vegetation cover, which is contrary to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly concerning the creation of resilient and sustainable urban environments. Additionally, the absence of green areas poses a significant challenge for the local community, compromising its ability to adapt to and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.

2.2. Methodology

The group, composed of second-semester medical students, conducted an investigation focused on the socio-environmental needs of the Alvorada neighborhood, with an emphasis on the urban vegetation index. This is an ecological study, considered appropriate for assessing how environmental factors—such as vegetation cover, temperature, and urbanization—affect the health of population groups at the collective level.

The methodological approach combined different data sources and analytical techniques to ensure greater robustness of the results. Three main strategies were employed.

An exploratory review of the scientific literature aimed to theoretically support the relationship between vegetation cover, urban environmental quality, and public health. The process was documented and represented in Figure 3 using an adapted PRISMA flow diagram. Although the study did not follow all the criteria of a systematic review, the flowchart illustrates the stages of identification, screening, full-text reading, and final inclusion of relevant articles. This approach is essential to ensure that the research is aligned with the most current and relevant scientific findings.

Figure 3. PRISMA flow diagram—stages of the literature review.

Figure 3. PRISMA flow diagram—stages of the literature review.

Remote data collection was carried out using aerial and satellite images (Google Earth/Airbus and GeoEye), following recognized protocols in geotechnologies applied to environmental health. These images allowed for the assessment of the spatial distribution of vegetation cover, the identification of critical areas, and the quantification of the neighborhood’s vegetation percentage. Remote sensing is widely recommended for urban studies as it provides a comprehensive and accurate view of the territory.

Field validation was conducted through technical visits to the study area. This step was essential for comparing image-based data with local reality, verifying aspects such as vegetation conditions, public use of green spaces, and the presence of native or exotic plant species. The triangulation between secondary data (literature and imagery) and direct observations strengthened the reliability of the findings.

As the main evaluation metric, the Vegetation Coverage Index (VCI) was used, which expresses the amount of green area available per inhabitant in square meters. The Percentage of Vegetation Coverage (PVC) was also calculated, representing the proportion of vegetation in relation to the total urban area. Both indices follow the recommendations of the World Health Organization, which suggests a minimum of 12 m² of green area per inhabitant, and the Brazilian Society of Urban Arborization (SBAU), which recommends at least 15 m²/inhabitant.

The proposed article intends to expand knowledge for the development of future studies and to present a benchmark of the local environmental situation [39]. Moreover, this research extends beyond the academic realm, offering a parameter for the environmental situation under study. This contributes concretely to the understanding and assessment of the environment in question.

2.3. Mapping of Vegetation Coverage and Green Areas

General knowledge of the territory was obtained through mapping the vegetation cover of the neighborhood based on the analysis of high-resolution aerial photographs provided by the aerospace company Airbus and accessed via Google Earth. This method is widely used in urban environmental studies due to its ability to produce precise vegetation mappings [40]. Additionally, satellite images from GeoEye, supplied by the Observatório da Saúde e Meio Ambiente do Sertão Produtivo e Semiárido Baiano, were analyzed [41]. GeoEye’s high spatial resolution makes it suitable for identifying urban vegetation patterns [42]. Field visits were conducted to validate the remote data, following best practices in integrated environmental assessment methodologies [15]. The collected data revealed the percentages of vegetation predominance in the urban area, indicating specific environmental characteristics.

In addition to the mapping through aerial photographs and satellite images, this study included field visits to complement and validate the information obtained remotely. During these visits, direct observations and data collection were carried out on the ground, allowing for a more in-depth analysis of the green areas and environmental conditions in the Alvorada neighborhood.

The field visits were fundamental, as they offered the opportunity to verify the accuracy of the information obtained through aerial and satellite images, ensuring that the collected data aligned with the local reality. Direct inspection allowed for the identification of areas that might not have been accurately captured by the images, such as small green spaces or recent changes in vegetation cover. Furthermore, the field visits enabled the collection of qualitative data that were not visible in remote images. For instance, the physical condition of the vegetation, the presence of native or invasive species, and the community’s interaction with green areas were directly observed.

Vegetation Coverage Index and Percentage (VCI/PVC)

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a minimum of 12 m² of green area per person, highlighting the importance of these areas for the health and well-being of the population. To evaluate whether a region meets this recommendation, various methods exist to calculate vegetation indices in a specific locality. The presence of trees on a street, for example, may create the false impression that the area complies with the WHO’s recommendation. Factors influencing the failure of urban areas to meet recommended standards include the unequal distribution of vegetation, inadequate maintenance, or insufficient green spaces relative to local population density.

While there are several studies using other analysis methods such as the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) [40], the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) [41], the Pigment Specific Simple Ratio (PSSR), and the Green Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (GNDVI) [42], the researchers opted to use the method of Vegetation Coverage and Percentage Index (VCI/PVC). This choice is due to their prior experience with this technique and the ease of its applicability.

In this study, the methods of Vegetation Coverage and Percentage Index (VCI/PVC) were used to evaluate the defined area. The vegetation cover index reflects the relationship between the urban space’s vegetation cover and the population density of a territory. This index is calculated by summing the green tree canopy areas, in square meters, divided by the number of inhabitants (Equation (1)). It is worth noting that as population density increases, the need to expand vegetation cover also grows. This provides an index of green areas per inhabitant that favors the improvement of the population’s quality of life [43].

$$\mathrm{VCI}={\displaystyle \frac{\sum \mathrm{vegetation}\mathrm{coverage}}{\mathrm{number}\mathrm{of}\mathrm{inhabitants}}}$$

(1)

For the Percentage of Vegetation Coverage (PVC), the product of the vegetation coverage in square meters is multiplied by the total urban area in square meters and then multiplied by 100 (Equation (2)).

$$\mathrm{PVC}={\displaystyle \frac{\sum \mathrm{vegetation}\mathrm{coverage}}{\mathrm{number}\mathrm{of}\mathrm{inhabitants}}}\times 100$$

(2)

For the classification of VCI, parameters from the World Health Organization (WHO) were used, as shown in

Table 1. Parameters from the World Health Organization.

Área (m2/Inhab)	Index Parameter
<12	Bad
>12	Good

, in addition to the indices recommended by the Brazilian Society of Urban Arborization [44]. This last one recommends a minimum value of 15 m²/inhabitant.

3. Results

For the analysis of the Alvorada neighborhood data, the interpretation of aerial photography (Figure 2) and the calculation of the VCI (Equation (1)) and PVC (Equation (2)) were considered. Thus, the studied territory has 3948 inhabitants [32] in an area of 328,310 m². The total canopy area found for the analyzed perimeter was 19,073 m².

Therefore, when performing the calculations for VCI and PVC, the following results are obtained (Equations (3) and (4)):

$$\mathrm{VCI}={\displaystyle \frac{\mathrm{19,073} {\mathrm{m}}^2}{3948 \mathrm{inhabitants}}}\cong 4.83 {\mathrm{m}}^2/\mathrm{inhabitants}$$

(3)

$$\mathrm{PVC}={\displaystyle \frac{\mathrm{19,073} {\mathrm{m}}^2}{\mathrm{328,310} {\mathrm{m}}^2}}\times 100\cong 5.8\%$$

(4)

From this perspective, the results confirmed by the VCI map—Guanambi-BA (Figure 4)—indicate that the Vegetation Coverage Index of the neighborhood shows an insufficient proportion of green areas concerning the assigned population. This corresponds to a considerably poor rate, i.e., a rate lower than 12 m² of vegetation coverage per inhabitant.

Figure 4. VCI map.—Guanambi-BA (Source: Observatório) [45].

Figure 4. VCI map.—Guanambi-BA (Source: Observatório) [45].

The Vegetation Coverage Index (VCI) of the Alvorada neighborhood was estimated at 4.83 m² per inhabitant, a value significantly lower than the recommendation of the World Health Organization (WHO), which establishes a minimum of 12 m² per inhabitant to ensure environmental and public health benefits. This result indicates that the vegetation available per resident is insufficient to guarantee thermal comfort, air quality, and psychological benefits associated with urban green spaces.

Spatial analysis revealed that only 5.8% of the urban area of the neighborhood is covered by vegetation. This percentage is considerably lower than the average observed in medium-sized Brazilian urban centers, which ranges from 15% to 20% [46]. Such a scarcity of vegetation coverage makes the region more vulnerable to the effects of urban heat islands, reduced rainwater infiltration, and the loss of local biodiversity.

Low vegetation coverage directly impacts environmental conditions and the residents’ quality of life. Studies have demonstrated that the insufficiency of green areas is associated with increased urban temperatures, deterioration of air quality, reduction in mental health, and higher prevalence of respiratory diseases [47]. In semi-arid regions, such as the municipality under study, these effects are even more pronounced due to local climatic characteristics.

In comparison, cities of similar size that have implemented urban afforestation programs have achieved VCI values exceeding 15 m² per inhabitant, promoting direct public health benefits and mitigating thermal discomfort. In contrast, the Alvorada neighborhood remains below desirable standards, highlighting the urgent need for public policies aimed at expanding green infrastructure.

The VCI value found was 4.83 m² per inhabitant, while the PVC was 5.8% of the urban area. These values are below both international and national benchmarks, as summarized in

Table 2. Comparison of the vegetation coverage indices of the studied neighborhood with national and international standards.

Indicator	Value Found (Studied Neighborhood)
VCI (Green area per inhabitant)	4.83 m2/inhabitant
PVC (Percentage of vegetation coverage)	5.8%
WHO recommendation	≥12 m2/inhabitant
National average (Brazil)	15–20%

Source: Prepared by the authors based on data from the study and WHO [48] recommendations.

below:

The low indices of green areas can be justified by a series of factors related to uncontrolled urbanization. The rapid and disorderly growth of urban areas often results in the replacement of natural vegetation with built structures, causing negative impacts on environmental balance [49]. Additionally, territorial policies that prioritize impermeabilization, while they may have aesthetic or infrastructure goals, often neglect the crucial importance of green areas in promoting community health and well-being [50].

The critical situation highlighted by the calculations of the Vegetation Coverage Index (VCI) and the Percentage of Vegetation Coverage (PVC) emphasizes the need for immediate interventions and urban planning strategies focused on the preservation and expansion of green areas in the Alvorada neighborhood. Specific care in the afforestation of squares and avenues can play an essential role in mitigating the adverse effects resulting from uncontrolled urban expansion [51]. This approach not only contributes to improving air quality and reducing local temperatures but also fosters social interaction and the mental well-being of residents [17].

Furthermore, the implementation of well-designed green spaces not only counterbalances negative environmental impacts but also strengthens the identity of the neighborhood, promoting a healthier and more pleasant environment for its inhabitants [52]. Considering these aspects in urban planning reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability and the collective well-being of the local community.

The data analysis also highlights the importance of public policies that encourage the preservation and recovery of green areas. Tax incentives for property owners who maintain green spaces on their properties, regulations protecting ecologically important areas, and the implementation of sustainable land use strategies are examples of measures that can contribute to reversing the worrying trend identified [53].

Aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is evident that the results have direct implications for SDGs 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and 13 (Climate Action). In light of the interpretations and calculations performed earlier, it is observed that the lower rate of vegetation coverage in the locality clearly indicates that the situation of vegetation coverage in the area is not aligned with the principles and goals of the SDGs, especially in aspects related to health, urban sustainability, and combating climate change. From this perspective, the integration of these goals into the population aims to improve living conditions, contributing to resilient and sustainable communities, emphasizing the need to develop urban infrastructures that promote health and the mitigation of the impacts of climate change.

The findings reveal a critical deficiency in vegetation coverage within the studied area, posing significant risks to urban environmental sustainability and the health of the local population. The analysis underscores the urgent need for the implementation of effective urban reforestation and environmental conservation strategies as priority measures aimed at enhancing the quality of life within the municipality.

In conclusion, the analysis of vegetation coverage indices in the Alvorada neighborhood highlights an imbalance between urban growth and environmental preservation. Awareness of the importance of green areas in promoting quality of life and addressing climate change is crucial, aimed at implementing sustainable strategies in urban planning and active community participation as essential steps to reverse the critical situation and build a healthier and balanced urban environment.

4. Discussion

This study contributes to the correlation between medical practice and quality of life through the influence of green areas, as these spaces promote an environment conducive to physical and mental well-being, thus reducing the prevalence of diseases. Poor environmental conditions are factors that contribute to the low general health levels of the population. Thus, the article provided theoretical knowledge on the topic within society and knowledge formation for the future work area, as medical care involves not only clinical studies but also an understanding of the environmental and social conditions that impact health.

The findings of this study indicate that the Alvorada neighborhood exhibits vegetation coverage indices (VCI and PVC) considerably below the standards established for healthy urban environments. The VCI, measured at 4.83 m² per inhabitant, falls significantly short of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) minimum recommendation of 12 m² per inhabitant, highlighting a critical deficiency in urban green infrastructure. Similarly, the PVC, with merely 5.8% of the urban area covered by vegetation, remains well below the national average of 15% to 20% observed in medium-sized Brazilian cities [46].

Comparable results have been reported in studies conducted in municipalities within Brazil’s Northeastern Semi-arid region, where VCIs ranged between 5 and 8 m² per inhabitant [54]. These findings underscore the widespread scarcity of green areas in semi-arid contexts and highlight the heightened environmental vulnerability of these regions. In contrast, municipalities such as Campinas (São Paulo), which have implemented comprehensive urban afforestation programs, have achieved VCIs exceeding 16 m² per inhabitant [49], demonstrating the effectiveness of consistent public policy in promoting urban green spaces.

Internationally, studies conducted in semi-arid regions such as Almería, Spain, recorded average PVC values of 12%, illustrating the global challenges faced by urban areas in arid climates [55]. Conversely, urban greening initiatives undertaken in tropical African cities such as Dakar (Senegal) have successfully increased VCI to 14 m² per inhabitant, thereby demonstrating the feasibility of implementing effective vegetation management practices even under adverse climatic conditions [56].

The similarities between the findings from Alvorada and those from other semi-arid regions suggest that low vegetation coverage is intrinsically linked to factors such as hydric deficits and the absence of targeted public policies. The differences observed, however, underscore that the implementation of urban reforestation strategies and sustainable land management practices can significantly alter this reality, promoting both environmental and social benefits.

The significance of this research lies in addressing a notable gap in the academic literature regarding urban vegetation coverage in small urban centers located in Brazilian semi-arid regions. Thus, the findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges related to green infrastructure in vulnerable contexts and offer valuable insights for the formulation of public policies focused on climate adaptation and the enhancement of urban health, both within Brazil and in other regions facing similar climatic constraints.

A major issue arises when analyzing the total urban coverage. According to the United Nations [25], about 55.3% of the world’s population resides in urban areas. This implies that the geometry of cities has been increasingly modified to meet the growing housing needs, which mainly results in scenarios of building verticalization [57]. This is encouraged by various capitalist sectors, such as tourism, and directly impacts thermal discomfort, increasing thermal sensations. According to Gimenez [58], verticalization is “a construction process where new floors are created, which are superimposed and arranged in stories in the form of a building”, thus allowing greater profitability with more housing or commercial spaces in a small area. Given this concept, one might think that this phenomenon is found only in large metropolises. However, in small cities, this process is more easily observed, as old, often historic, residences are demolished to make way for large structures built to favor the real estate sector and increase local value.

Besides Brazil, many other countries, especially developing ones, have this issue established. The most notable example is the Asian continent, focusing on the country of Singapore, where transformation has been more intense due to population growth. Studies have analyzed the relationship between the built urban environment and the spatial variation in air temperature and humidity in Chennai, India, by Horrison and Amirtham [59], who state that land cover, orientation, and urban geometry significantly impact the city’s thermal sensation, along with the influence of visible sky factors in the development of urban heat islands [21,27]. Considering this, the presence of trees in the urban environment significantly contributes to reducing radiation absorbed by buildings and soils [60]. Local climate zones in regions with medium-height buildings present the worst comfort conditions due to poor shading of urban spaces [61].

Returning to the Brazilian scenario, this study concludes that the Alvorada neighborhood in Guanambi, BA, presented low vegetation indices, which are critically below the recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Urban Arborization (SBAU) and the World Health Organization (WHO). As this work is based on the premise that the presence of vegetation cover in urban spaces significantly contributes to improving urban environmental quality, adequate vegetation in the locality promotes shading, improves air quality, reduces noise pollution, and helps in thermal regulation. Thus, it brings balance between the modified space for urban settlement and the environment [62].

According to the Climate Observatory [63], thermal comfort conditions will affect thousands of people, as temperature increases will affect human health in different proportions, being even more pronounced in urban areas due to the abundance of heat-retaining surfaces. Back in 1994, Dr. Saldiva described the main physiological changes due to climate change impacts, such as increases in cancer, heart diseases, infectious and respiratory diseases, heart attacks, and extreme dehydration [64,65]. It is worth noting that these impacts are particularly evident among elderly individuals and people with pre-existing conditions, who are more susceptible to adverse climatic conditions. Due to the abrupt temperature increase, these diseases may present in the coming years, including those related to allergens.

In addition to the already demonstrated environmental and health benefits, the expansion of urban green areas should also be evaluated from an economic and strategic perspective. Although planting and maintaining vegetation involve costs related to water usage, seedling acquisition, and technical labor, these investments can be offset by a range of direct and indirect benefits. The presence of trees and green spaces contributes to reducing ambient temperatures and mitigating the formation of urban heat islands, which can lower electricity consumption for cooling. Furthermore, green areas help retain pollutants, reduce CO₂ emissions, and improve air quality, ultimately reflecting in reduced public healthcare expenditures. In the medium and long term, increased green density can enhance property values, lower urban drainage infrastructure costs, and encourage the use of public spaces, promoting collective well-being and social cohesion. Therefore, integrating quantitative estimates of costs and benefits into urban greening policies is essential to support sustainable strategies with economic feasibility and measurable positive impact.

It is emphasized that public policies and interventions play an essential role in mitigating climate impacts on quality of life. Implementing public policies focused on sustainable urban planning in the region is necessary to promote the preservation and expansion of green areas. This action becomes essential to ensure a balanced and pleasant urban environment and not only covers the specific area but also the city, reaffirming the commitment to the quality of life and well-being of the Guanambi community. In this context, this article aims to fill gaps and open doors for further investigations, positively influencing the understanding of the complex interactions between nature, society, and health.

Given the above, it was possible to highlight the positive factors that emerged from this study due to the in-depth understanding of the complex interactions between environmental conditions and the population’s health status. The integrated approach allowed for reflection on how climate change tends to exacerbate health problems. However, it is crucial to recognize the inherent limitations of the study, such as the restricted availability of specific publicly available data with limited access, which may have impacted the scope of the analysis.

Although the study focused on the Vegetation Coverage Index (VCI) as the main environmental indicator, it is well understood by scholars that residents’ well-being can also be influenced by socioeconomic factors, such as income and access to healthcare services. Future research could include these variables to provide a more holistic view of the relationship between quality of life and the urban environment.

Additionally, time constraints may have reduced the research’s extent, preventing a deeper exploration of certain aspects. Given the identified limitations, future studies should seek to expand the database by incorporating different geographical and demographic contexts and investing in long-term research that can allow for a robust understanding of trends over the years. By addressing the identified limitations and exploring new research paths, it is possible to continually enhance understanding and consequently develop more effective strategies to promote health in communities affected by environmental conditions.

5. Conclusions

This study analyzed the vegetation coverage indices in the Alvorada neighborhood, demonstrating the precarious state of urban green infrastructure in a semi-arid region.

The main findings are as follows:

(1) The neighborhood presents a Vegetation Coverage Index (VCI) and a Percentage of Vegetation Coverage (PVC) significantly below national and international recommended standards.

(2) The low vegetation coverage compromises the urban environmental quality, increasing the population’s vulnerability to effects such as urban heat islands, poor air quality, and reductions in physical and mental health.

(3) Comparisons with other Brazilian and international cities reveal that the absence of public afforestation policies is a determining factor for the low level of urban vegetation.

(4) The situation found reinforces the urgent need for the implementation of public green infrastructure policies, especially in contexts of climatic vulnerability such as semi-arid regions.

(5) The study helps to fill a knowledge gap regarding urban vegetation in small-sized cities located in semi-arid regions, offering support for climate adaptation strategies and urban health promotion.

Thus, this work highlights the relevance of urban vegetation for quality of life, proposing that reforestation and ecological management initiatives be incorporated into the urban planning of municipalities with similar characteristics.