Green space

A new global report using data from 290 million people confirms that “spending time outside has significant and wide-ranging health benefits.”  Evidence from over 140 studies including 290 million people reveals that populations with higher levels of green space have less cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and are less likely to die prematurely.  The results also showed that those living in or near to green space had significantly reduced levels of salivary cortisol and increased sleep duration.

Green space was defined as ‘open, undeveloped land with natural vegetation or urban green spaces including urban parks and street greenery.’  Lead author Caoimhe Twohig-Bennett said, “People living near green space likely have more opportunities for physical activity and socialising.  Meanwhile, exposure to a diverse variety of bacteria present in natural areas may also have benefits for the immune system and reduce inflammation.”