A new study published in the journal BMJ Open has found that urban green spaces play a significant role in mitigating the health risks associated with extreme heat in cities. Researchers analyzed 12 studies from seven countries and found that regions with more greenery had lower rates of heat-related health problems and deaths. In addition to lowering ambient temperatures, green space was also found to have a positive impact on mental health, potentially offsetting the negative effects of high temperatures on wellbeing.
The study highlighted the importance of green spaces beyond providing relief from heat, citing benefits such as stress relief, increased exercise opportunities, and reduced exposure to air pollution and noise. Research has also shown that children living in greener neighborhoods have stronger lungs. Mark Nieuwenhuijsen, director of the Barcelona Institute for Global Health, emphasized the importance of meeting international recommendations for access to green space, as it could prevent nearly 43,000 deaths per year in European cities.
While initiatives like the European Union’s pledge to plant three billion trees by 2030 show progress, challenges remain in ensuring the survival and maturity of newly planted trees. Ahsana Nazish, lead author of the study, stressed the need for policies to improve access to green spaces, especially in densely populated areas with vulnerable populations. More investment in urban green infrastructure is necessary to adapt cities to rising global temperatures and improve public health outcomes.
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