Green Infrastructure Approaches for Sustainable Planning of Sports and Recreation Facilities: A Case Study of Poznan
Purpose: The aim of this study is to assess the integration of green infrastructure (GI) and sustainable building practices in sports and recreational facilities in Poznań, with particular attention to energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, water management, material selection, and ecological site planning. By analyzing municipal investment data, the study seeks to identify patterns, gaps, and best practices that can support the broader implementation of sustainable infrastructure principles in urban recreational settings. Design/Methodology/Approach: Using a qualitative document analysis of 36 investment projects implemented between 2019 and 2023, the study identifies 17 projects incorporating environmentally conscious measures, including energy-efficient LED lighting, photovoltaic systems, thermal insulation improvements, water management systems, eco-friendly materials, and site-sensitive planning. Findings: The findings reveal that while GI practices are increasingly adopted across both large-scale and community-focused facilities, their implementation remains uneven. Larger, high-visibility projects tend to lead in sustainability integration, whereas smaller facilities face challenges related to funding, planning capacity, and governance. Practical Implications: The findings suggest that the integration of green infrastructure and sustainable construction practices in municipal sports and recreational facilities can effectively support broader urban sustainability goals while improving the environmental performance of public infrastructure. The study highlights the need for more systematic approaches to sustainability implementation, including the development of formalized sustainability standards, stronger policy coordination, and post-implementation monitoring frameworks. Originality/Value: This research contributes to the limited body of literature on the application of green infrastructure in public sports and recreational facilities in mid-sized cities. By focusing on municipal investments in Poznań, the study provides empirical insights into how ecological practices can be mainstreamed within urban recreational infrastructure planning and offers a practical model for other municipalities pursuing sustainable urban development.