"Urban green space provision: the case for policy-based solutions to support human health" Now Published

Congratulations to Environment Institute members for the publication of their recent paper "Urban green space provision: the case for policy-based solutions to support human health".

This paper was formed from the Urban Greening Workshops held by HEAL and Dynamic State. Authors included members of the Environment Institute - Shannon Evenden, Stefan Caddy-Retalic, Carmel Williams, Yonatal Tefera, Veronica Soebarto, and Environment Institute Director, Professor Andrew Lowe.

Green spaces improve mental and physical health, reduce stress, boost social connections, and even lower the risk of illnesses like heart disease and dementia. They also help cool cities, reduce pollution, and support biodiversity. Yet, as cities expand, green spaces are being squeezed out, especially in lower-income areas.

To fix this, experts recommend clear standards, like the “3-30-300 rule”: see 3 trees from home, have 30% tree canopy in your neighbourhood, and live within 300 meters of a quality green space. This approach ensures everyone benefits, not just a lucky few.

Investing in green spaces isn’t just good for health—it’s smart economics. Research shows tree planting can save millions in healthcare costs by reducing heat-related illnesses and cardiovascular issues.

It’s time for governments to make urban greening a priority, embedding it into policies to create healthier, more connected, and climate-resilient cities. Let’s grow a greener, healthier future! 

To read the full article click here.