The result of a UK study published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology add to the mounting evidence that an open area of park or fields in the concrete jungle can cut pollution and deter allergies. Researchers found a little strip of green has a long-lasting positive impact for urban dwellers unlike pay rises or promotions, which only provided a short-term boost. Even after three years, their mental health remained better. People living in greener urban areas also displayed fewer signs of depression or anxiety.
In another study, cross-sectional evidence taken from over 10,000 individuals suggests that living closer to urban green spaces is associated with lower mental distress.
The potential benefit at to the community highlights the importance of protecting urban green spaces.
If environmental officials say parks are good for people's health surely health services should be contributing to the cost of creating good quality local green spaces.