How do trees and green spaces enhance our health?

April 19, 2024

Wynne Armand, MD, Contributor

Harvard Health Publishing

Keywords: Trees, Green spaces, Health benefits, Climate change, Urban heat islands, Biodiversity, Mental health, Community well-being

"Trees and their leafy canopy provide shade that helps to prevent urban heat islands. What does that mean for individuals? It translates to fewer heat-related health illnesses, which strike outdoor workers and younger, older, and medically vulnerable people more often. A study published in The Lancet calculated that increasing tree canopy to 30% coverage in 93 European cities could prevent an estimated four in 10 premature heat-related deaths in adults in those cities."

The article discusses the numerous benefits of trees and green spaces on human health and the environment. It highlights how trees combat climate change, reduce pollution, and provide habitats for biodiversity. Spending time in green spaces is linked to improved health outcomes, including better mood and behavior, particularly in children. The article emphasizes the importance of urban tree canopies in preventing heat-related illnesses and enhancing community well-being. It also encourages individuals to participate in tree-planting initiatives to counteract the decline in urban greenery.

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Tags: Health, Environment, Green Spaces, Mental Health, Community, Climate Change, Urban Planning, Biodiversity, Wellness