Green Spaces in Cities Help Reduce Heat-Related Deaths
Green spaces in cities are not only important as the lungs of urban areas but also play a significant role in promoting public health. These areas have a crucial role in reducing illnesses and deaths caused by the changing climate, as shown by the most comprehensive study on this topic.
The study highlights that increasing parks and green spaces in urban areas may help countries mitigate the dangers of heat and improve public health. The ongoing climate crisis, driven by greenhouse gases released from the burning of fossil fuels, is causing global temperatures to rise, resulting in a warmer atmosphere.
While the benefits of green spaces are widely known, there is still limited understanding of the health risks associated with heat exposure. However, recent research from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine indicates that abundant green spaces in urban areas are linked to a reduction in heat-related diseases and deaths, as well as improved mental health and well-being.
Researchers published their findings in the BMJ Open journal, stating: “Urban green spaces play a key role in mitigating health risks associated with heat, and they present a valuable strategy for urban planning to address climate change and improve public health.” They further added, “Research on urban green spaces and their effects on heat-related illnesses and mortality shows that areas with more green spaces, such as parks and trees, can help reduce the negative health impacts of high temperatures.”
The study also found that areas with greater green space had lower rates of heat-related illness and death compared to areas with less greenery. Additionally, urban green spaces positively affect mental health and overall well-being, helping to mitigate the adverse health impacts of high temperatures.
The United Nations has set a goal to provide access to safe and accessible green spaces and public areas, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those living with chronic illnesses, by 2030.
Reference