Informing the design of public greenspaces to optimise wellbeing outcomes for the general population
Our findings highlight how different features including sounds of flowing water, open seating areas, far-reaching views, and a variety of planting (colour, height, texture, scents, attracting wildlife) within a garden influence emotional reactions and perceived restoration. These findings help build a wider picture of the lived experiences of garden users and how their wellbeing may be influenced by specific garden features. We intend our findings to support design guidelines of public greenspaces concerning human wellbeing.
The benefits of green infrastructure on campus for student and visitor health
For city planners and policymakers, increasing the tree canopy coverage stands out as the most promising green infrastructure planning/management strategies to contribute to health of campus communities/users. The tree canopy data are also more widely available than most other green infrastructure variables, making its use for the purpose of monitoring, intervention, and assessment feasible for various stakeholders.
Urban biodiversity helps with mental well-being, but we need to take more notice of it
As urbanisation continues globally, the interest in urban green space as a provider/supporter of mental well-being is still growing. The question has largely moved on from “Will a walk in the park help with mental well-being?” to “Will a walk in any park do?” Previous research suggested that urban green spaces with rich fauna and flora (i.e. rich biodiversity) improved mental well-being. However, the experimental evidence remains limited.
Heightened feelings of exclusion contribute to young people’s growing detachment from urban green spaces
Our research studies how 16-25-year-old Londoners’ perceptions of parks management practices affect their use of these public spaces. Our aim was to address a knowledge deficit regarding the role of spending time in green space and young people’s mental wellbeing. For policymakers and practitioners aiming to manage parks as health infrastructure, this information is essential, given this cohort is at a critical developmental stage for building mental health resilience.