Health Benefits of Green Spaces
Below you will find research and case studies, along with community examples, that demonstrate the health benefits of green spaces in communities.
Research and Case Studies
The Impact of Green Space on Heat and Air Pollution in Urban Communities- This report was provided by the David Suzuki Foundation, an organization based in Canada with a mission to protect the diversity of nature and our quality of life. The details of this report discuss the evidence found in a five year study that analyzes the role of urban green space in providing cooling effects and reducing air pollution for surrounding neighborhoods.
Why Kids Need to Spend Time in Nature- This article published by the Child Mind Institute identifies many reasons why children need to spend more time outdoors and in nature.
What Are Healing Gardens?- Healing Gardens in hospitals and medical centers are a great place for anybody at a hospital to get a relaxing experience during stressful times. This article explains why and how healing gardens are helping hospital patients, families, and staff.
How Greenery Contributes to Your Health and Wellbeing- This infographic from inhabitat.com illustrates how your yard, and other living landscapes, provide multiple health benefits for families and communities.
The Health Benefits of Parks- This report was published by The Trust for Public Land and discusses the many reasons why adequate access to parks and recreational open spaces are important for the health and wellbeing of Americans.
People Who Spend More Time Outdoors are Happier and Healthier- This article highlights a study led by Viren Swami, a professor at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge. The research conducted during the study found a link between time outside and people’s perception of their bodies. The more time people spent outside the more they felt like an important part of a much broader ecosystem.
Community Examples
Healing Gardens Benefit Hospital Patients, Families, and Staff- This article describes how the beautiful garden at Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center has provided patients, families, and staff with a place to relax and unwind away from the hospital.
