Abstract:

In the face of increasing urbanization and climate challenges, higher education institutions are called upon to foster sustainability competencies and civic responsibility. Urban parks act as vital green infrastructure, yet their benefits often remain invisible to the public. This paper proposes a Service-Learning project developed by the Forestry Engineering School at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid in collaboration with the Federación Regional de Asociaciones Vecinales de Madrid, Asociación Parque sí Chamberí and Canal de Isabel II. The project bridges the gap between academic scientific training and social needs by quantifying the ecosystem services in the Santander Park (Madrid, Spain) and transferring this knowledge to the local community to promote shared consciousness of urban trees.

The methodology will integrate standardized dendrometric data collection with digital analysis tools. Students will create a dataset of selected trees, incorporating key variables such as species, health status, dimensions, location, and risk assessment. This data will be processed using the i-Tree software suite to generate estimates of ecosystem services. Specifically, the study will calculate carbon sequestration, oxygen production, storm water retention and air quality improvement.

To ensure the technical data reaches the community, the project will produce a report designed for a non-expert audience, utilizing simple visualizations and an accessible glossary. The results will be disseminated through participatory actions, including practical workshops, interpretative walks, and on-site signage, preparing material for the European Tree Tag Day event. This approach strengthens the sense of belonging and raises awareness about the benefits of the urban forest for health and climate resilience, addressing SDGs 3, 11, 13, and 15.

In parallel to the community service, the project will develop applied professional competencies in the evaluation and communication of urban forests. Real-world case studies in the park, will allow students to design an inventory, apply a standardized valuation methodology, and translate technical results into narratives useful for public understanding and technical decision-making. The curriculum will also focus on public communication skills, data ethics, and strategies for participatory management. Crucially, students will learn to navigate and resolve complex trade-offs, such as balancing safety requirements with conservation goals or thermal comfort.

This initiative demonstrates that integrating science, technical management, and community actors allows learning to occur in realistic contexts, not only providing the neighbourhood with a technical basis to advocate for their green spaces but also equipping students with the technical skills necessary for modern urban forestry.

Keywords:

Service-Learning, Urban Forestry, i-Tree, Ecosystem Services, Community Engagement, Citizen Science.