A study shows that mortality is lower in urban areas with broader-scale greening strategies, especially when trees are within 1km of homes. This challenges the idea that smaller greenspaces closer to home (3-500m) are more beneficial
https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/news/2024/09/urban-forests-reduce-heat-related-mortality-study-shows
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>Dr Song explains: “By analysing data from Hong Kong, we found that compared with other types of vegetation like grasslands, nearby forests have a pronounced impact on reducing heat-related mortality risks, particularly those within 1 kilometre of residential areas.
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>“Our findings suggest that urban greening strategies should focus on tree planting within walkable distances to local residents, in addition to adding other types of vegetation in a specific area.”
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>Dr Song says that the study challenges some conventional assumptions about urban greening strategies and has the potential to significantly impact urban planners, designers, and public health initiatives.
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>“For example, it challenges the idea that small greenspaces close to where people live are the most effective for improving health, especially those within 300 or 500 metres.
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>“Instead, our research suggests that broader-scale greening strategies, particularly involving trees, are more effective up to 1km away from communities,” she adds.
Paper: [Do greenspaces really reduce heat health impacts? Evidence for different vegetation types and distance-based greenspace exposure – ScienceDirect](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412024005361?via%3Dihub)
Have trees on streets to actively cool the outdoor environment and houses and blamo, happier people. Cities need to plant trees and ensure they water them during spring-fall for the first 2-3 years for establishment