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132536 - The impact of green space and biodiversity on health.pdf (2.34 MB)

The impact of green space and biodiversity on health: synthesis and systematic review

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journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-20, 03:32 authored by Lai, H, Emily FliesEmily Flies, Weinstein, P, Woodward, A
Urban green spaces are associated with many health outcomes, but the mechanisms underlying these links remain unclear. One explanation is that biodiverse microbiomes in green spaces affect human health by modifying immune function. Our systematic review included studies that investigated the relationship between green space and either health or biodiversity. Reported effects of green space on health were generally positive, but 22% of the papers identified either no effect or negative effects. We also found that although green space was commonly associated with biodiversity, few green‐space health studies simultaneously examined biodiversity. Overreliance on cross‐sectional studies, various definitions of green space, and a lack of research in tropical and developing nations limit the conclusions that can be drawn. A better understanding of the biological aspects of contact with nature is required before city planners can optimize green spaces for health gains.

Funding

Australian Research Council

History

Publication title

Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment

Volume

17

Issue

7

Pagination

383-390

ISSN

1540-9295

Department/School

School of Natural Sciences

Publisher

John Wiley & Sons Ltd

Place of publication

United States

Rights statement

Copyright 2019 Ecological Society of America

Repository Status

  • Open

Socio-economic Objectives

Terrestrial biodiversity; Public health (excl. specific population health) not elsewhere classified

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