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Vilcins D, Sly PD, Scarth P, Mavoa S. Green space in health research: an overview of common indicators of greenness. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2024; 39:221-231. [PMID: 36372560 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2022-0083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Human environments influence human health in both positive and negative ways. Green space is considered an environmental exposure that confers benefits to human health and has attracted a high level of interest from researchers, policy makers, and increasingly clinicians. Green space has been associated with a range of health benefits, such as improvements in physical, mental, and social wellbeing. There are different sources, metrics and indicators of green space used in research, all of which measure different aspects of the environment. It is important that readers of green space research understand the terminology used in this field, and what the green space indicators used in the studies represent in the real world. This paper provides an overview of the major definitions of green space and the indicators used to assess exposure for health practitioners, public health researchers, and health policy experts who may be interested in understanding this field more clearly, either in the provision of public health-promoting services or to undertake research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwan Vilcins
- Children's Health and Environment Program, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Peter D Sly
- Children's Health and Environment Program, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Peter Scarth
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Suzanne Mavoa
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Ordóñez C, Kendal D, Davern M, Conway T. Having a tree in front of one's home is associated with GREATER subjective wellbeing in adult residents in Melbourne, Australia, and Toronto, Canada. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 250:118445. [PMID: 38360163 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
While urban trees can be important determinants of human health and wellbeing in world cities, the specific influence of nearby urban trees upon human wellbeing has not been adequately explored. While many studies have associated urban greenery abundance with wellbeing scores, many measures of urban greenery do not specify the type of vegetation or the impact of co-location. Here we fill this gap by associating self-reported measures of the presence of nearby trees (tree in front of one's home) with validated subjective wellbeing (SWB) scores. We also tested for the mediating role of what people thought about trees and nature, with a focus on the values people associate with urban trees and nature relatedness (NR). We used electronic panel survey data based on a demographic and geographical representative sample of more than 3400 residents living in Toronto, Canada, and Melbourne, Australia. We analysed these data using regression-based mediation and path analyses. We found that having a tree in front of one's home was strongly and positively associated with SWB scores in both cities with similar results (Melbourne, β = 0.17, p < 0.05; Toronto, β = 0.18, p < 0.05), while accounting for NR, values associated with urban trees, and demographics (e.g., age, education, home ownership). The mediating role of NR and values was small. The specific pathways of association between tree in front of one's home, SWB, NR, and values, varied by city, when accounting for demographics. We discuss how increasing the abundance of nearby urban trees in cities may also increase human wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo Ordóñez
- Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment, University of Toronto at Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada; School of Ecosystem and Forest Science, Burnley campus, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, 500 Yarra Boulevard, Richmond, Victoria, 3121, Australia.
| | - Dave Kendal
- Future in Nature Pty Ltd, Australia; Melbourne School of Design, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Melanie Davern
- Health Place and Society, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University, 124 La Trobe Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Tenley Conway
- Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment, University of Toronto at Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
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Wu W, Chen D, Ruan X, Wu G, Deng X, Lawrence W, Lin X, Li Z, Wang Y, Lin Z, Zhu S, Deng X, Lin Q, Hao C, Du Z, Wei J, Zhang W, Hao Y. Residential greenness and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a large cohort in southern China: Potential causal links, risk trajectories, and mediation pathways. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00214-5. [PMID: 38797475 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Residential greenness may influence COPD mortality, but the causal links, risk trajectories, and mediation pathways between them remain poorly understood. OBJECTIVES We aim to comprehensively identify the potential causal links, characterize the dynamic progression of hospitalization or posthospital risk, and quantify mediation effects between greenness and COPD. METHODS This study was conducted using a community-based cohort enrolling individuals aged ≥ 18 years in southern China from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2015. Greenness was characterized by normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) around participants' residential addresses. We applied doubly robust Cox proportional hazards model, multi-state model, and multiple mediation method, to investigate the potential causal links, risk trajectories among baseline, COPD hospitalization, first readmission due to COPD or COPD-related complications, and all-cause death, as well as the multiple mediation pathways (particulate matter [PM], temperature, body mass index [BMI] and physical activity) connecting greenness exposure to COPD mortality. RESULTS Our final analysis included 581,785 participants (52.52% female; average age: 48.36 [Standard Deviation (SD): 17.56]). Each interquartile range (IQR: 0.06) increase in NDVI was associated with a reduced COPD mortality risk, yielding a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.88 (95 % CI: 0.81, 0.96). Furthermore, we observed per IQR (0.04) increase in NDVI was inversely associated with the risk of multiple transitions (baseline - COPD hospitalization, baseline - death, and readmission - death risks), especially a declined risk of all-cause death after readmission (HR = 0.66 [95 %CI: 0.44, 0.99]). Within the observed association between greenness and COPD mortality, three mediators were identified, namely PM, temperature, and BMI (HR for the total indirect effect: 0.773 [95 % CI: 0.703, 0.851]), with PM showing the highest mediating effect. CONCLUSIONS Our findings revealed greenness may be a beneficial factor for COPD morbidity, prognosis, and mortality. This protective effect is primarily attributed to the reduction in PM concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Wu
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xingling Ruan
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gonghua Wu
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinlei Deng
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Wayne Lawrence
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Xiao Lin
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ziqiang Lin
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Basic Medicine and Public Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuming Zhu
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueqing Deng
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiaoxuan Lin
- Guangzhou Health Technology Identification & Human Resources Assessment Center, Department of Statistics, China
| | - Chun Hao
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhicheng Du
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Wei
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Science, Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center, University of Maryland, College Park, USA.
| | - Wangjian Zhang
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health & Research Center for Health Information & Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yuantao Hao
- Peking University Center for Public Health and Epidemic Preparedness & Response, Peking, China; Key Laboratory of Epidemiology of Major Diseases, Peking University, Ministry of Education, Peking, China.
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Methorst J. Positive relationship between bird diversity and human mental health: an analysis of repeated cross-sectional data. Lancet Planet Health 2024; 8:e285-e296. [PMID: 38729669 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(24)00023-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing body of research has examined the link between biodiversity of birds and human mental health, but most studies only use cross-sectional data. Few studies have used longitudinal or repeated cross-sectional data to investigate the mental health benefits of bird diversity. The aim of this study is to analyse the relationship between bird diversity and mental health at the national level using a unique repeated cross-sectional dataset. METHODS I used repeated cross-sectional health data from the German National Cohort health study, collected between March, 2014, and September, 2019, and annual bird citizen science data to investigate the effects of bird-diversity exposure on mental health. Mental health was measured using the summary score of the Patient Health Questionnaire depression module 9 (SumPHQ) and the Short Form Health Survey-12 Mental Health Component Scale. As a proxy for bird diversity, I created a unique indicator called reporting-rate richness and combined it with the health data. Reporting-rate richness measures the number of bird species within postcode areas across Germany in probabilities while accounting for variation in survey efforts. Alternative indicators of bird diversity, such as bird-species richness or abundance, were also calculated. Associations between bird diversity and mental health were estimated using linear regression with region and time fixed effects, adjusted for a range of sociodemographic and environmental confounders and spatial autocorrelation. Interaction terms between income levels and reporting-rate richness were also analysed to examine the moderating effect of socioeconomic status. FINDINGS I did the analyses for an unbalanced (n=176 362) and balanced (n=125 423) dataset, with the balanced dataset comprising only regions (postcode areas) in which health data were available for each year. The linear fixed-effects regression analysis indicated a significant negative association between reporting-rate richness and SumPHQ, as observed in both the unbalanced dataset (β -0·02, p=0·017) and the balanced dataset (β -0·03, p=0·0037). Similarly, regression results with both datasets showed a positive relationship between reporting-rate richness and Mental Health Component Scale (MCS; unbalanced β 0·02, p=0·0086; balanced β 0·03, p=0·0018). The moderator analyses revealed a significant influence of socioeconomic status on the relationship between reporting-rate richness and mental health. The robustness of these findings was confirmed through sensitivity analyses. INTERPRETATION The results suggest that a greater likelihood of having many different bird species in a person's area of residence might positively contribute to mental health, especially for people with lower socioeconomic status. These findings could have implications for biodiversity conservation and health policy decisions, as governments are facing challenges such as global biodiversity loss and growing public mental health problems. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Methorst
- Helmut-Schmidt University, Holstenhofweg, Hamburg, Germany; Hamburg Institute of International Economics, Hamburg, Germany.
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Robinson JM, Breed AC, Camargo A, Redvers N, Breed MF. Biodiversity and human health: A scoping review and examples of underrepresented linkages. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 246:118115. [PMID: 38199470 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Mounting evidence supports the connections between exposure to environmental typologies(such as green and blue spaces)and human health. However, the mechanistic links that connect biodiversity (the variety of life) and human health, and the extent of supporting evidence remain less clear. Here, we undertook a scoping review to map the links between biodiversity and human health and summarise the levels of associated evidence using an established weight of evidence framework. Distinct from other reviews, we provide additional context regarding the environment-microbiome-health axis, evaluate the environmental buffering pathway (e.g., biodiversity impacts on air pollution), and provide examples of three under- or minimally-represented linkages. The examples are (1) biodiversity and Indigenous Peoples' health, (2) biodiversity and urban social equity, and (3) biodiversity and COVID-19. We observed a moderate level of evidence to support the environmental microbiota-human health pathway and a moderate-high level of evidence to support broader nature pathways (e.g., greenspace) to various health outcomes, from stress reduction to enhanced wellbeing and improved social cohesion. However, studies of broader nature pathways did not typically include specific biodiversity metrics, indicating clear research gaps. Further research is required to understand the connections and causative pathways between biodiversity (e.g., using metrics such as taxonomy, diversity/richness, structure, and function) and health outcomes. There are well-established frameworks to assess the effects of broad classifications of nature on human health. These can assist future research in linking biodiversity metrics to human health outcomes. Our examples of underrepresented linkages highlight the roles of biodiversity and its loss on urban lived experiences, infectious diseases, and Indigenous Peoples' sovereignty and livelihoods. More research and awareness of these socioecological interconnections are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake M Robinson
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.
| | - Andrew C Breed
- Epidemiology and One Health Section, Department of Agriculture, Water, and the Environment, Canberra, ACT, Australia; School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, Qld, Australia
| | | | - Nicole Redvers
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Martin F Breed
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
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Ryan SC, Sugg MM, Runkle JD, Thapa B. Advancing Understanding on Greenspace and Mental Health in Young People. GEOHEALTH 2024; 8:e2023GH000959. [PMID: 38455233 PMCID: PMC10918609 DOI: 10.1029/2023gh000959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Mental distress among young people has increased in recent years. Research suggests that greenspace may benefit mental health. The objective of this exploratory study is to further understanding of place-based differences (i.e., urbanity) in the greenspace-mental health association. We leverage publicly available greenspace data sets to operationalize greenspace quantity, quality, and accessibility metrics at the community-level. Emergency department visits for young people (ages 24 and under) were coded for: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, mental and behavioral disorders, and substance use disorders. Generalized linear models investigated the association between greenspace metrics and community-level mental health burden; results are reported as prevalence rate ratios (PRR). Urban and suburban communities with the lowest quantities of greenspace had the highest prevalence of poor mental health outcomes, particularly for mood disorders in urban areas (PRR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.16-1.21), and substance use disorders in suburban areas (PRR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.28-1.43). In urban, micropolitan, and rural/isolated areas further distance to greenspace was associated with a higher prevalence of poor mental health outcomes; this association was most pronounced for substance use disorders (PRRUrban: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.29-1.32; PRRMicropolitan: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.43-1.51; PRRRural 2.38: 95% CI: 2.19-2.58). In small towns and rural/isolated communities, poor mental health outcomes were more prevalent in communities with the worst greenspace quality; this association was most pronounced for mental and behavioral disorders in small towns (PRR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.24-1.35), and for anxiety disorders in rural/isolated communities (PRR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.43-1.82). The association between greenspace metrics and mental health outcomes among young people is place-based with variations across the rural-urban continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia C. Ryan
- Department of Geography and PlanningAppalachian State UniversityBooneNCUSA
| | - Margaret M. Sugg
- Department of Geography and PlanningAppalachian State UniversityBooneNCUSA
| | | | - Bhuwan Thapa
- Department of Geography and PlanningAppalachian State UniversityBooneNCUSA
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Daneshyar H, Mirdamadi SM, Niknami M, Lashgarara F. Structural analysis modeling of participatory stakeholder management for green space improvement: evidence from Tehran Metropolis. BRAZ J BIOL 2023; 83:e277847. [PMID: 38126482 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.277847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Encouraging stakeholder participation is now considered an appropriate approach to green space improvement. The main question is how to have people participate in the improvement process. This study aims to propose a participatory stakeholder management model of green space improvement in Tehran Metropolis. Therefore, 190 of Tehran Municipality's green space experts were selected as the statistical population for in-person and field interviews. The dependent research variable was defined as the green space improvement measured in four dimensions (i.e., green space planning, green space designing, green space implementation, and green space maintenance). However, the independent variable included the aspects of participatory management (i.e., participation in goal-setting, participation in decision-making, participation in organizational change, participation in problem-solving, and organizational culture). The results indicated that only organizational culture and participation in organizational change explained nearly 96% of participatory management variations and improved 67% of the green space.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Daneshyar
- PhD Student in Agricultural Extension and Education, Department of Economic, Agricultural Extension and Education, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - S M Mirdamadi
- Associate Professor of Department of Economic, Agricultural Extension and Education, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Niknami
- Associate Professor of Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Garmsar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Garmsar, Iran
| | - F Lashgarara
- Associate Professor of Department of Economic, Agricultural Extension and Education, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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Marvier M, Kareiva P, Felix D, Ferrante BJ, Billington MB. The benefits of nature exposure: The need for research that better informs implementation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2304126120. [PMID: 37871200 PMCID: PMC10622866 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2304126120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Concern about humanity's detachment from nature has spawned a global push to increase the availability of green spaces within cities. One impetus for this movement is a growing collection of studies documenting an association between improved human well-being and exposure to nature. The challenge lies in translating this research into pragmatic recommendations for cities. The usefulness of the existing research portfolio is diminished by the limitations of prevailing research designs. For example, most nature exposure studies (>80%) are observational. The rare randomized manipulative experiments tend to be indoors or virtual and rely on nature exposures on the order of ten to fifteen minutes. "Nature" and "biodiversity" are commonly invoked together as benefiting human well-being despite little evidence that biodiversity has particular importance for human psychological and emotional health. The most glaring gap in nature exposure research is the neglect of differences among cultures and ethnic groups with respect to the nature they prefer. In the few cases where researchers looked for differences among groups, they often found heterogeneous responses. Finally, few studies have compared greening interventions to other possible efforts to improve urban life. Thus, the utopian city of the future might be resplendent with urban parks on every block, but it is not clear whether those parks should offer basketball and pickleball courts, or small woodlands with a cornucopia of birds. We advocate for the next generation of nature exposure research that better informs the envisioning of our future sustainable cities with enhanced and equitable access to nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Marvier
- Department of Environmental Studies and Sciences, Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA95053
| | | | | | - Brian J. Ferrante
- Environmental Systems Program, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA92093
| | - Morgan B. Billington
- Department of Environmental Studies and Sciences, Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA95053
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Ordóñez C, Labib SM, Chung L, Conway TM. Satisfaction with urban trees associates with tree canopy cover and tree visibility around the home. NPJ URBAN SUSTAINABILITY 2023; 3:37. [PMID: 38666053 PMCID: PMC11041773 DOI: 10.1038/s42949-023-00119-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Many world cities want to expand the number of urban trees. How this expansion occurs should consider what people expect from trees based on how they experience and perceive these trees. Therefore, we need a better understanding of how people perceptually respond to urban tree abundance. This research examined whether people's satisfaction with urban trees and satisfaction with the management of those trees were related to objective measures of greenery such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), percent tree canopy cover, and the Viewshed Greenness Visibility Index (VGVI) for trees. We used a demographically and geographically representative survey of 223 residents in Toronto, Canada, and calculated NDVI, canopy cover, and VGVI at three neighbourhood sizes. We analysed the data using generalized linear regression. We found that canopy cover and VGVI had a positive association with satisfaction with urban trees. The associations were comparatively stronger at larger neighbourhood scales than at smaller scales. There were no statistically significant associations with NDVI or satisfaction with the management of urban trees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo Ordóñez
- Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment, University of Toronto at Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6 Canada
| | - S. M. Labib
- Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CB Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lincoln Chung
- Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment, University of Toronto at Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6 Canada
| | - Tenley M. Conway
- Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment, University of Toronto at Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6 Canada
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Yu W, Liu Z, La Y, Feng C, Yu B, Wang Q, Liu M, Li Z, Feng Y, Ciren L, Zeng Q, Zhou J, Zhao X, Jia P, Yang S. Associations between residential greenness and the predicted 10-year risk for atherosclerosis cardiovascular disease among Chinese adults. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 868:161643. [PMID: 36657685 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to build environments, especially residential greenness, offers benefits to reduce the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). The 10-year ASCVD risk is a useful indicator for long-term ASCVD risk, but the evidence on the association and potential pathway of residential greenness in mitigating its development remains unclear. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the associations between residential greenness and the 10-year predicted ASCVD risks, and potentially mediation effect on this association by air pollution, body mass index (BMI) and physical activity (PA). METHODS The baseline of the China Multi-Ethnic Cohort (CMEC) study, enrolling 99,556 adults during 2018-2019, was used in this cross-sectional study. The participants' 10-year ASCVD risks were predicted as low-, moderate-, and high-risk groups, based on the six risk factors: age, smoking, hypertension, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and high total cholesterol (TC). The 3-year mean value within the circular buffer of 500 m and 1000 m of Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI500m and EVI1000m) were used to assess greenness exposure. Multiple logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between residential greenness and the 10-year ASCVD risks. Stratified analyses by sex, age and smoking status were performed to identify susceptible populations. Causal mediation analysis was used to explore the mediation effects of air pollution, BMI and PA. RESULTS A total of 75,975 participants were included, of which 17.9 % (n = 13,614) and 5.6 % (n = 4253) had the moderate and high 10-year ASCVD risks, respectively. Compared to the low-risk group, each interquartile increase in EVI500m and EVI1000m reduced the ASCVD risk of the moderate-risk group by 4 % (OR = 0.96 [0.94, 0.98]) and 4 % (OR = 0.96 [0.94, 0.98]), respectively; and reduced the risk of the high-risk group by 8 % (OR = 0.92 [0.90, 0.96]) and 7 % (OR = 0.93 [0.90, 0.97]), respectively. However, the increased greenness did not affect the ASCVD risk of the high-risk group when compared to the moderate-risk group. Effects of residential greenness on the ASCVD risk were stronger in women than in men (p < 0.05), and were not observed in those aged ≥55. PA and BMI partially mediated the association between greenness and the 10-year ASCVD risk. CONCLUSIONS ASCVD prevention strategies should be tailored to maximize the effectiveness within the groups with different ASCVD risks, better at early stages when the ASCVD risk is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanqi Yu
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhu Liu
- Chengdu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang La
- School of Medicine, Tibet University, Tibet, China
| | - Chuanteng Feng
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Institute for Disaster Management and Reconstruction, Sichuan University-The Hongkong Polytechnic University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bing Yu
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Institute for Disaster Management and Reconstruction, Sichuan University-The Hongkong Polytechnic University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qinjian Wang
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Meijing Liu
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhifeng Li
- Chongqing Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuemei Feng
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Laba Ciren
- Tibet Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Tibet, China
| | - Qibing Zeng
- School of Public Health, the Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Junmin Zhou
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xing Zhao
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Peng Jia
- School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Hubei Luojia Laboratory, Wuhan, China; School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; International Institute of Spatial Lifecourse Health (ISLE), Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Shujuan Yang
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; International Institute of Spatial Lifecourse Health (ISLE), Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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van Eeden LM, Francis L, Squires ZE, Hames F, Bekessy SA, Smith L, Hatty M. Demographic and spatial variables associated with spending time in nature during COVID-19 lockdowns. URBAN FORESTRY & URBAN GREENING 2023; 82:127895. [PMID: 36919044 PMCID: PMC9985542 DOI: 10.1016/j.ufug.2023.127895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
To stop the spread of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (COVID-19) governments around the world implemented lockdowns restricting public travel. In the Australian state of Victoria, this included limiting permitted reasons for leaving home and restricting movements to within a 5 km radius of one's home. In 2020, we conducted a state-wide survey (N = 1024) of Victorians that coincided with a lockdown. We asked respondents where they had spent time in nature and how they perceived lockdowns affected the amount of time they spent in nature. We then considered demographic and spatial predictors of spending more or less time in nature. Women, younger people, and those living in areas with higher socio-economic status were likely to report spending more time in nature. Closer proximity of residents to parks and waterways and higher proportional area of native vegetation within a 1-km radius were also associated with more time in nature. Understanding how different groups were affected by restrictions on access to nature can help improve government management of crises like pandemics, including through urban planning for green space, supporting improved individual and societal resilience. We discuss the implications of our findings for improving access to nature during lockdowns as well as opportunities for a post-pandemic relationship with nature, particularly in urban settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily M van Eeden
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia
- ICON Science Research Group, School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, RMIT University, Melbourne 3000, Victoria, Australia
- BehaviourWorks Australia, Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lachlan Francis
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zoe E Squires
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fern Hames
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 123 Brown Street, Heidelberg 3084, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah A Bekessy
- ICON Science Research Group, School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, RMIT University, Melbourne 3000, Victoria, Australia
| | - Liam Smith
- BehaviourWorks Australia, Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Victoria, Australia
| | - Melissa Hatty
- BehaviourWorks Australia, Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Victoria, Australia
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12
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Flies EJ, Lim JNW, Douglas I. Editorial: Urban ecology and human health. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.1032022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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13
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Zhang Y, Gao Y, Zhan C, Liu T, Li X. Subjective Well-Being of Professional Females: A Case Study of Dalian High-Tech Industrial Zone. Front Psychol 2022; 13:904298. [PMID: 35874332 PMCID: PMC9296829 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.904298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The education level and social participation of contemporary Chinese women have reached their historical peak; work is fast becoming the dominant theme of their lives. However, influenced by traditional attitudes, women are still expected to undertake the main family care tasks, thus, facing dual constraints of family and work, which seriously affect their life happiness. Based on the theory of subjective well-being and feminist geography, this study used the questionnaire survey and in-depth interview results of professional females in Dalian High-tech Industrial Zone as basic data to explore the life satisfaction and emotional cognition in intra- and extra-household life of professional females (Professional females: In this study, they are the women who have received formal education and currently have full-time and steady job (including regular employees in the national systems and those who have signed labor contracts with labor units).). The following results were obtained: (1) Most professional females reported higher life satisfaction in intra- rather than extra-household life, and it varied with individual attributes, reflecting the internal differences among them. (2) The positive emotions of professional females came from the company of family and friends in intra-household life, and satisfaction with the working environment and treatment in extra-household life. (3) The negative emotions came from the pressure of "marriage," "birth," and other traditional concepts in intra-household life. In extra-household life, it came from the health problems caused by working stress, interpersonal problems and gender inequality in the workplace, and the anxiety of age and future career development. Therefore, this study committed to revealing the living status and subjective feelings of contemporary professional females in China, hoping to improve women's life quality and enhance their life happiness from a theoretical and realistic perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Zhang
- School of Geography, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
| | - Ya Gao
- School of Geography, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
| | | | - Tianbao Liu
- School of Geography, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
| | - Xueming Li
- School of Geography, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian, China
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14
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Hedin M, Hahs AK, Mata L, Lee K. Connecting Biodiversity With Mental Health and Wellbeing — A Review of Methods and Disciplinary Perspectives. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.865727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Biodiversity conservation and mental health and wellbeing are of increasing global concern, with growing relevance to planning and policy. A growing body of literature exploring the relationships between biodiversity and mental health and wellbeing—based on early research conducted largely from social science perspectives—suggests that particular qualities within natural environments confer particular benefits. Results so far have been inconclusive and inconsistent, contributing to an incohesive body of evidence. While past reviews have focused on reporting variations in results, the present study builds on early reviews by exploring variations from the perspective of author disciplines and the use of different guiding theories, and variables used to measure biodiversity, mental health and wellbeing. This aims to address a research gap in understanding whether research in this topic has become more interdisciplinary or has employed more consistent study designs, which were highlighted as priorities in past reviews, but the progress of which has not yet been explored in depth. We found that research connecting biodiversity and mental health and wellbeing has become only marginally more interdisciplinary in recent years, and there is still a large inconsistency in the use of guiding theories, variables and overall study designs. The variation in disciplinary perspectives and methods reflects a growing interest in this field and the variety of ways researchers are trying to understand and test the complex relationships between biodiversity and mental health and wellbeing. Our study shows that there are unique perspectives that different disciplines can contribute to this body of research and continuing to increase collaboration between disciplines with the use of consistent mixed methods approaches in future may contribute to a more cohesive body of evidence. We provide a framework to conceptualize recommendations for future research, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration at multiple scales, and importantly focusing on more specific, mechanistic studies to inform decision-making that provides co-benefits for biodiversity and mental health and wellbeing.
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15
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Schwartz AJ, Dodds PS, O’Neil-Dunne JPM, Ricketts TH, Danforth CM. Gauging the happiness benefit of US urban parks through Twitter. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0261056. [PMID: 35353831 PMCID: PMC8967001 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The relationship between nature contact and mental well-being has received increasing attention in recent years. While a body of evidence has accumulated demonstrating a positive relationship between time in nature and mental well-being, there have been few studies comparing this relationship in different locations over long periods of time. In this study, we analyze over 1.5 million tweets to estimate a happiness benefit, the difference in expressed happiness between in- and out-of-park tweets, for the 25 largest cities in the US by population. People write happier words during park visits when compared with non-park user tweets collected around the same time. While the words people write are happier in parks on average and in most cities, we find considerable variation across cities. Tweets are happier in parks at all times of the day, week, and year, not just during the weekend or summer vacation. Across all cities, we find that the happiness benefit is highest in parks larger than 100 acres. Overall, our study suggests the happiness benefit associated with park visitation is on par with US holidays such as Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J. Schwartz
- Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, United States of America
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- Vermont Complex Systems Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- Computational Story Lab, MassMutual Center of Excellence for Complex Systems and Data Science, Vermont Advanced Computing Core, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Peter Sheridan Dodds
- Vermont Complex Systems Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- Computational Story Lab, MassMutual Center of Excellence for Complex Systems and Data Science, Vermont Advanced Computing Core, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- Department of Computer Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
| | - Jarlath P. M. O’Neil-Dunne
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- Vermont Complex Systems Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
| | - Taylor H. Ricketts
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
| | - Christopher M. Danforth
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- Vermont Complex Systems Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- Computational Story Lab, MassMutual Center of Excellence for Complex Systems and Data Science, Vermont Advanced Computing Core, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
- Department of Mathematics & Statistics, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
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16
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Not all types of nature have an equal effect on urban residents' well-being: A structural equation model approach. Health Place 2022; 74:102759. [PMID: 35255415 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
A growing amount of research shows a positive association between urban nature and urban residents' psychological and physical well-being and quality of life. With its focus on specific dimensions of well-being and reliance either on large-scale objective data sets or experimental and comparative designs, prior research does not explicitly address the relationships between the various types of urban nature as experienced by citizens and their overall well-being. The present research proposes a model for the potential influence of the perceptions of the type and characteristics of nature close to urban residences and citizens' well-being via their frequency of exposure to, and their activities in, nature. Using WHOQOL-26 as a measure of well-being and constructing or adapting measurements for the other variables, a questionnaire was designed and administered among a sample of 2500 French urban residents. Psychometric tests, structural equation modeling, and mediation analyses were conducted on the collected data. The results show that: (1) The perceived characteristics of nature near urban residences have both direct and indirect influences on the psychological, physical, environmental, and resources-related dimensions of citizens' well-being; (2) Less domesticated nature-forests, fields, and scrubland-contributes to psychological well-being by favoring light or calm activities in nature, and to physical well-being by supporting exposure to nature. Such wilder nature is also positively associated with the perceived quality of urban residences; (3) Small spots of nature, located close to one's residence-a balcony, a patio, or a roof garden-make a similar but smaller contribution to well-being; (4) Domesticated nature-city gardens and parks-contribute marginally to the physical and resources-related dimensions of well-being. These results complement past research on the perceived characteristics of nature by showing how nature, as experienced by urban citizens, refers to different vegetation spaces. They also invite urban planners and policymakers to acknowledge the positive association between "wilder" natural spaces and well-being.
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17
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Jabbar M, Yusoff MM, Shafie A. Assessing the role of urban green spaces for human well-being: a systematic review. GEOJOURNAL 2022; 87:4405-4423. [PMID: 34305268 PMCID: PMC8290137 DOI: 10.1007/s10708-021-10474-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Human has been evolving in a natural environment over a long time; thus, he is habitual to adapt it. Green spaces are obligatory landscapes in an urban structure that provide a natural environment and accelerate other life events. In contrast, unplanned urbanization, and conversion from green to grey structures have damaged natural environmental resources. Studies through different angles have highlighted the importance of urban green spaces for human well-being but now need to identify their role according to the potential. The demands of urban green spaces may differ with the change of population size, types of grey structure, urban expansion, the altitude of the place, and geographical location. Therefore, this systematic review aims to analyse the significance of urban green spaces for human well-being. The study opted for a systematic process during the selection and organization of studies for this review. After analysing, 46 studies were finalized with the consensus of three review authors. Accordingly, literature was analysed under the central theme of "Urban Green Spaces for Human Well-being." Human Well-being was assessed under six sub-themes; physical, psychological, mental, social, subjective, and environmental well-being. The review concluded that urban green spaces are the primary pillar for a sustainable urban place and human well-being due to highly positive and positive correlations. Moreover, the study did not find any demarcation line between green spaces and grey structures according to any specific need. Therefore, the study suggested that the role of urban green spaces for human well-being should be analysed according to their potential and required optimal ratio under different communities' urban specific environments and social behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aziz Shafie
- HOD Geography Department, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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18
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Going Green and Going Dense: A Systematic Review of Compatibilities and Conflicts in Urban Research. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su131910643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The dilemma of simultaneously promoting the advantages of urban densification and urban liveability, namely the environmental and social benefits of urban green spaces, has been widely acknowledged in the research literature. This paper aims to provide an overview of the current state of evidence on benefits, conflicts and challenges emerging from fostering both urban densification and urban greening aims. A systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines was conducted. Searches for peer-reviewed papers were conducted in Scopus and Web of Science. Our search yielded an initial 357 papers, which were then further sorted and screened to the 117 manuscripts retained and included in this review. The authors systematized the multiple perspectives in which the interactions between urban densification and urban greening have been explored. Moreover, the results revealed a lack of clear agreement about the existence or not of conflicts emerging from fostering both urban densification and urban greening aims, suggesting that the positive or negative interactions are not absolute but depend on the scale or the context on which the studies are conducted. Further research should explore multiple potential mediating variables (e.g., the mediator effect of scale and context) to deepen our understanding of interactions between density and greening.
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19
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Marczylo EL, Macchiarulo S, Gant TW. Metabarcoding of Soil Fungi from Different Urban Greenspaces Around Bournemouth in the UK. ECOHEALTH 2021; 18:315-330. [PMID: 34089413 PMCID: PMC8626400 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-021-01523-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Soil microbes are important for public health. Increasing urbanisation is adversely affecting soil microbiota, which may be contributing to the global rise of immune-related diseases. Fungi are key components of urban environments that can be negatively impacted by altered land-use, land-management and climate change, and are implicated in the development and exacerbation of non-communicable diseases such as allergy, asthma and chronic inflammatory conditions. Fungal metagenomics is building knowledge on fungi within different environments (the environmental mycobiome), fungi on and within the human body (the human mycobiome), and their association with disease. Here, we demonstrate the added value of a multi-region metabarcoding approach to analyse soil mycobiomes from five urban greenspaces (lawns, parklands, bareground, young forest and old forest). While results were comparable across the three regions (ITS1, ITS2 and LSU), each identified additional fungal taxa that were unique to the region. Combining the results therefore provided a more comprehensive analysis across all fungal taxonomic ranks, identifying statistically significant differences in the fungal composition of the five soil types. Assignment of fungal taxa into ecological guilds revealed those differences of biological relevance to public health. The greatest differences were between the soil mycobiome of lawns and forests. Of most concern was the significant increase in the known human allergens Alternaria, Bipolaris, Cladosporium and Fusarium within urban lawn and parkland vs forest soils. By improving our understanding of local variations in fungal taxa across urban greenspaces, we have the potential to boost the health of local residents through improved urban planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Marczylo
- Toxicology Department, Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Harwell Campus, Chilton, Oxfordshire, OX11 0RQ, UK.
| | - Sameirah Macchiarulo
- Toxicology Department, Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Harwell Campus, Chilton, Oxfordshire, OX11 0RQ, UK
| | - Timothy W Gant
- Toxicology Department, Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Harwell Campus, Chilton, Oxfordshire, OX11 0RQ, UK
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20
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Arrondo R, Cárcaba A, González E. Drivers of Subjective Well-Being Under Different Economic Scenarios. Front Psychol 2021; 12:696184. [PMID: 34456812 PMCID: PMC8386685 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.696184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper explores the evolution of the driving forces that shape individual subjective well-being (SWB) in Spain from 2013 to 2018. Several socio-demographic, material conditions and quality of life (QoL) variables are considered as potential drivers of SWB. The data come from a large survey carried in two different time periods. The first one (2013) is characterized by a negative economic scenario as a result of the global financial crisis of 2008. The second one (2018) is characterized by fast economic recovery. Our results suggest that the material conditions variables, especially unemployment, have a much deeper impact on SWB during economic downturns than during economic recovery periods. Social connections and health status are determinant factors behind SWB, especially if the economy is working well. Our results also point to changes in gender effects. While women were happier than men in 2013, this effect disappears in 2018. Paradoxically, this suggest an increase in female expectations about their own lives during this period.
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21
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Mavoa S, Keevers D, Kane SC, Wake M, Tham R, Lycett K, Wong YT, Chong K. Parental Preconception Exposures to Outdoor Neighbourhood Environments and Adverse Birth Outcomes: A Protocol for a Scoping Review and Evidence Map. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18178943. [PMID: 34501533 PMCID: PMC8431720 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18178943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Parental preconception exposures to built and natural outdoor environments could influence pregnancy and birth outcomes either directly, or via a range of health-related behaviours and conditions. However, there is no existing review summarising the evidence linking natural and built characteristics, such as air and noise pollution, walkability, greenness with pregnancy and birth outcomes. Therefore, the planned scoping review aims to collate and map the published literature on parental preconception exposures to built and natural outdoor environments and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. We will search electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus) to identify studies for inclusion. Studies will be included if they empirically assess the relationship between maternal and paternal preconception exposures to physical natural and built environment features that occur outdoors in the residential neighbourhood and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. Two reviewers will independently screen titles and abstracts, and then the full text. Data extraction and assessment of study quality will be performed by one researcher and checked by a second researcher. Results will be summarised in a narrative synthesis, with additional summaries presented as tables and figures. The scoping review will be disseminated via a peer-reviewed publication, at academic conferences, and published on a website.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Mavoa
- Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (M.W.); (K.L.)
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-3-9035-9720
| | - Daniel Keevers
- Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
| | - Stefan C. Kane
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Royal Women’s Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Melissa Wake
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (M.W.); (K.L.)
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Grafton, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Rachel Tham
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia;
| | - Kate Lycett
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (M.W.); (K.L.)
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Yen Ting Wong
- IMPACT Institute, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia;
| | - Katherine Chong
- Ingram School of Nursing, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2M7, Canada;
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22
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Marselle MR, Lindley SJ, Cook PA, Bonn A. Biodiversity and Health in the Urban Environment. Curr Environ Health Rep 2021; 8:146-156. [PMID: 33982150 PMCID: PMC8115992 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-021-00313-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Biodiversity underpins urban ecosystem functions that are essential for human health and well-being. Understanding how biodiversity relates to human health is a developing frontier for science, policy and practice. This article describes the beneficial, as well as harmful, aspects of biodiversity to human health in urban environments. RECENT FINDINGS Recent research shows that contact with biodiversity of natural environments within towns and cities can be both positive and negative to human physical, mental and social health and well-being. For example, while viruses or pollen can be seriously harmful to human health, biodiverse ecosystems can promote positive health and well-being. On balance, these influences are positive. As biodiversity is declining at an unprecedented rate, research suggests that its loss could threaten the quality of life of all humans. A key research gap is to understand-and evidence-the specific causal pathways through which biodiversity affects human health. A mechanistic understanding of pathways linking biodiversity to human health can facilitate the application of nature-based solutions in public health and influence policy. Research integration as well as cross-sector urban policy and planning development should harness opportunities to better identify linkages between biodiversity, climate and human health. Given its importance for human health, urban biodiversity conservation should be considered as public health investment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah J. Lindley
- Department of Geography, School of Environment, Education and Development, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Penny A. Cook
- School of Health and Society, University of Salford, Salford, M6 6PU UK
| | - Aletta Bonn
- Department of Ecosystem Services, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Biodiversity, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Dornburger Straße 159, 07743 Jena, Germany
- Department of Ecosystem Services, German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstr. 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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Shin JH, Dennis S, Mohammed H. Mental Health Outcome Measures in Environmental Design Research: A Critical Review. HERD-HEALTH ENVIRONMENTS RESEARCH & DESIGN JOURNAL 2021; 14:331-357. [PMID: 33942674 DOI: 10.1177/1937586721999787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM During the last several decades, researchers have produced abundant evidence of the environmental impacts on stress, attention, and physical activity. More recently, scholars have turned their focus to the influence environments have on mental wellness. Therefore, a critical review of this more recent research is both timely and crucial for setting the future research agenda. METHODS In this article, we examined 65 papers published between 2008 and 2019 that examined the environmental correlates of a wide variety of mental health outcomes. We coded each study by type of environment, research design, mental health measurement scale used, and p-value. RESULTS We categorized the research studies into six groups based on mental health outcomes: emotions, moods, vitality, executive function, stress, and general well-being. Our review revealed several trends among the studies, including a heavy focus on nature and outdoor environments with little attention to workplace or residential environments; a lack of consensus on how to operationalize the environment; a heavy reliance on self-reported ratings using a wide variety of scales, many focused on the same outcome; and a disproportionate focus on short-term health effects. CONCLUSIONS There is a need for greater consensus on research constructs and health outcome measurements, focused on a wider variety of environmental settings and scales, in order to better inform evidence-based environmental design practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Hye Shin
- Department of Design Studies, 5228University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Samuel Dennis
- Department of Planning and Landscape Architecture, 5228University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Hassnaa Mohammed
- Department of Design Studies, 5228University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
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24
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Pérez-Urrestarazu L, Kaltsidi MP, Nektarios PA, Markakis G, Loges V, Perini K, Fernández-Cañero R. Particularities of having plants at home during the confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic. URBAN FORESTRY & URBAN GREENING 2021; 59:126919. [PMID: 34754288 PMCID: PMC8569528 DOI: 10.1016/j.ufug.2020.126919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The present study evaluated the role of having plants at home during the confinement period as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic that deprived people of freely visiting open green spaces. Preferences concerning the quantity of the desired vegetation as well as the ways in which the COVID-19 crisis affected the change of perceptions with regard to having plants at home were also evaluated. A questionnaire, which was filled by 4205 participants, provided an undistracted evaluation of the impact of indoor and outdoor plants on their emotional welfare considering behavioural, social, and demographic variables. The emotional state of the respondents was neutral and a significant proportion expressed positive emotions. Having indoor plants was correlated with more positive emotions, and confined inhabitants allocated more time for plant maintenance. By contrast, negative emotions prevailed in respondents who related to a positive COVID-19 case, which was more frequent in females and young participants living in small houses that received low levels of natural light and had few or no plants. A few indoor plants placed in strategic positions were also preferred compared with a high number of plants. By contrast, an increased amount of vegetation accompanied by living walls was preferred for outdoor settings. Living walls were considered as advantageous for increasing indoor vegetation, but they were also associated with technical and economical hurdles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Pérez-Urrestarazu
- Urban Greening and Biosystems Engineering Research Group, Department of Aerospace Engineering and Fluids Mechanics, ETSIA Ctra. Utrera Km.1, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Maria P Kaltsidi
- Urban Greening and Biosystems Engineering Research Group, Department of Aerospace Engineering and Fluids Mechanics, ETSIA Ctra. Utrera Km.1, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | - Panayiotis A Nektarios
- Hellenic Mediterranean University, Department of Agriculture, Laboratory of Quality and Safety of Agricultural Products, Landscape and Environment, Specialization of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Estavromenos, Heraklion, Crete, 71004, Greece
| | - Georgios Markakis
- Hellenic Mediterranean University, Department of Social Work, Estavromenos, Heraklion, Crete, 71410, Greece
| | - Vivian Loges
- Departamento de Agronomia, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, UFRPE Rua Dom Manoel de Medeiros, s/n, Dois Irmãos, 52171-900, Recife-PE, Brazil
| | - Katia Perini
- Architecture and Design Department, University of Genoa. Stradone S. Agostino 37, 16128, Genoa, Italy
| | - Rafael Fernández-Cañero
- Urban Greening and Biosystems Engineering Research Group. Department of Agro-Forestry Sciences. Universidad De Sevilla. ETSIA Ctra, Utrera km.1, 41013, Seville, Spain
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25
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Labib SM, Huck JJ, Lindley S. Modelling and mapping eye-level greenness visibility exposure using multi-source data at high spatial resolutions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 755:143050. [PMID: 33129523 PMCID: PMC7562921 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The visibility of natural greenness is associated with several health benefits along multiple pathways, including stress recovery and attention restoration mechanisms. However, existing methodologies are inadequate for capturing eye-level greenness visibility exposure at high spatial resolutions for observers located on the ground. As a response, we developed an innovative methodological approach to model and map eye-level greenness visibility exposure for 5 m interval locations within a large study area. We used multi-source spatial data and applied viewshed analysis in conjunction with a distance decay model to compute a novel Viewshed Greenness Visibility Index (VGVI) at more than 86 million observer locations. We compared our eye-level visibility exposure map with traditional top-down greenness exposure metrics such as Normalised Differential Vegetation Index (NDVI) and a Street view based Green View Index (SGVI). Furthermore, we compared greenness visibility at street-only locations with total neighbourhood greenness visibility. We found strong to moderate correlations (r = 0.65-0.42, p < 0.05) between greenness visibility and mean NDVI, with a decreasing trend in correlation strength at increasing buffer distances from observer locations. Our findings suggest that top-down and eye-level measurements of greenness are two distinct metrics for assessing greenness exposure. Additionally, VGVI showed a strong correlation (r = 0.481, p < 0.01) with SGVI. Although the new VGVI has good agreement with existing street view based measures, we found that street-only greenness visibility values are not wholly representative of total neighbourhood visibility due to the under-representation of visible greenness in locations such as backyards and community parks. Our new methodology overcomes such underestimations, is easily transferable, and offers a computationally efficient approach to assessing eye-level greenness exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Labib
- Department of Geography, School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED), University of Manchester, Arthur Lewis building (1st Floor), Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom; Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR), MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Clifford Allbutt Building, CB2 0AH, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
| | - Jonny J Huck
- Department of Geography, School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED), University of Manchester, Arthur Lewis building (1st Floor), Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom.
| | - Sarah Lindley
- Department of Geography, School of Environment, Education and Development (SEED), University of Manchester, Arthur Lewis building (1st Floor), Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom.
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26
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Relative 'greenness' and not availability of public open space buffers stressful life events and longitudinal trajectories of psychological distress. Health Place 2021; 68:102501. [PMID: 33535155 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2020.102501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Despite evidence of associations between urban green space exposure and mental health, explanatory mechanisms and the role of green space qualities remain unclear. This prospective cohort study (n = 929) examined the distinct relationships of residential public open space (POS) availability and 'greenness' with four-year trajectories of psychological distress in Montreal, Canada. Stress-buffering and main effect mechanisms were tested under the respective hypotheses that POS exposures 1) attenuate the impact of stressful events on psychological distress and 2) protect against psychological distress independently of exposure to stressful events. Results from growth mixture models indicate that residing among 'greener' POS protects against rising distress through both mechanisms. Conversely, POS availability was not associated with trajectories of distress when holding greenness constant. Findings reinforce the need to consider the quality as well as quantity of public open space in urban environments.
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27
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Pearson AL, Pechal J, Lin Z, Benbow ME, Schmidt C, Mavoa S. Associations detected between measures of neighborhood environmental conditions and human microbiome diversity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 745:141029. [PMID: 32721621 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
While emerging research suggests urban green space revegetation increases soil microbiota diversity and native plant species affect skin microbiome diversity, there is still a paucity of knowledge on relationships between neighborhood environmental conditions and the human microbiome. This study leveraged data on human microbiome samples (nose, mouth, rectum) taken at autopsy at the Wayne County Medical Examiner's Office (2014-2015). We evaluated relationships between the microbiome and five measures of environmental conditions (NDVI standard deviation, NDVI mean, percent trees, percent grassland and soil type) near the home of 126 decedents. For the rectum microbiome, NDVI sd had negative, significant associations with diversity (ASVs β = -0.20, p = 0.045; Faith PD β = -0.22, p = 0.026). In contrast, while insignificant, there were consistent, positive associations between diversity and NDVI sd for the mouth microbiome (ASVs β = 0.09, p = 0.337, Faith PD β = 0.14, p = 0.149, Shannon diversity β = 0.14, p = 0.159, Heip's evenness β = 0.11, p = 0.259) and a significant association for the nose microbiome (eigenvalues 3 β = 0.18, p = 0.057). We found consistent, significant, negative associations between percent grassland and diversity of the nose microbiome (ASVs β = -0.25, p = 0.008, Faith PD β = -0.25, p = 0.009, Shannon diversity β = -0.17, p = 0.062). For the mouth microbiome, we found a small effect of percent trees on diversity (eigenvalues 1 β = -0.08, p = 0.053). Clay loam soil was negatively (eigenvalues 2 β = -0.47, p = 0.053) and positively associated (eigenvalues 3 β = 0.65, p = 0.008) with rectum microbiome diversity, compared to loam soil. There was no potential indicator taxon among NDVI quartiles. These findings may be relevant for urban planning and management of urban outdoor spaces in ways that may support healthy human microbiomes. Still, future research is needed to link variation in NDVI, vegetation, plant and/or soil microbe diversity and to confirm or negate our findings that environmental conditions may have contrasting influence on the microbiome of the rectum versus the nose and mouth and that grasslands affect the nose microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber L Pearson
- Michigan State University, Department of Geography, Environment & Spatial Sciences, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; University of Otago, Department of Public Health, Wellington 6242, New Zealand.
| | - Jennifer Pechal
- Michigan State University, Department of Entomology, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Zihan Lin
- Michigan State University, Department of Geography, Environment & Spatial Sciences, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - M Eric Benbow
- Michigan State University, Department of Entomology, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Michigan Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Carl Schmidt
- Wayne County Medical Examiner's Office, Detroit, MI 48207, USA; University of Michigan, Department of Pathology, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Suzanne Mavoa
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
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28
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Bielinis E, Xu J, Omelan AA. A Novel Anti-Environmental Forest Experience Scale to Predict Preferred Pleasantness Associated with Forest Environments. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17186731. [PMID: 32947772 PMCID: PMC7558048 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In this study, a method for predicting the preferred pleasantness induced by different forest environments, represented by virtual photographs, was proposed and evaluated using a novel Anti-Environmental Forest Experience Scale psychometric test. The evaluation questionnaire contained twenty-one items divided into four different subscales. The factor structure was assessed in two separate samples collected online (sample 1: n = 254, sample 2: n = 280). The internal validity of the four subscales was confirmed using exploratory factor analysis. Discriminant validity was tested and confirmed using the Amoebic Self Scale (spatial–symbolic domain). Concurrent validity was confirmed using the Connectedness to Nature Scale. Predictive validity was based on an assessment of pleasantness induced by nine different photographs (control—urban landscapes, forest landscapes, dense forest landscapes), with subscales differently correlated with the level of pleasantness assessed for each photograph. This evaluation instrument is appropriate for predicting preferred pleasantness induced by different forest environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Bielinis
- Department of Forestry and Forest Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Management and Agriculture, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Pl. Łódzki 2, 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Jianzhong Xu
- Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Foundations, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39759, USA;
- Faculty of Education, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
| | - Aneta Anna Omelan
- Department of Tourism, Recreation and Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, ul. Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
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29
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Zhang Y, Mavoa S, Zhao J, Raphael D, Smith M. The Association between Green Space and Adolescents' Mental Well-Being: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17186640. [PMID: 32932996 PMCID: PMC7557737 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review summarised and evaluated the evidence for associations between green space and adolescents’ mental well-being. The PRISMA statement guidelines were followed for reporting systematic reviews. Fourteen articles met the inclusion criteria for this review. Synthesis suggests beneficial associations between green space exposure and reduced stress, positive mood, less depressive symptoms, better emotional well-being, improved mental health and behaviour, and decreased psychological distress in adolescents. Several studies found the relationship varied by demographic and socio-economic factors. The limited number of studies and the risk of bias were the main limitations, together with heterogeneity regarding green space and mental well-being assessments. Overall, this review highlights the potential contribution of green space in schoolyards. Improving the availability, accessibility and quality of green space is likely to generate positive impacts on adolescents’ mental well-being. More consistent evidence on the use of different types of green space and perceptions of features are needed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijun Zhang
- School of Nursing, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (J.Z.); (D.R.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +64-2102324817
| | - Suzanne Mavoa
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia;
| | - Jinfeng Zhao
- School of Nursing, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (J.Z.); (D.R.); (M.S.)
| | - Deborah Raphael
- School of Nursing, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (J.Z.); (D.R.); (M.S.)
| | - Melody Smith
- School of Nursing, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (J.Z.); (D.R.); (M.S.)
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30
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Prescott SL, Bland JS. Spaceship Earth Revisited: The Co-Benefits of Overcoming Biological Extinction of Experience at the Level of Person, Place and Planet. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17041407. [PMID: 32098222 PMCID: PMC7068540 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17041407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Extensive research underscores that we interpret the world through metaphors; moreover, common metaphors are a useful means to enhance the pursuit of personal and collective goals. In the context of planetary health—defined as the interdependent vitality of all natural and anthropogenic ecosystems (social, political and otherwise)—one enduring metaphor can be found in the concept of “Spaceship Earth”. Although not without criticism, the term “Spaceship Earth” has been useful to highlight both resource limitations and the beauty and fragility of delicate ecosystems that sustain life. Rene Dubos, who helped popularize the term, underscored the need for an exposome perspective, one that examines the total accumulated environmental exposures (both detrimental and beneficial) that predict the biological responses of the “total organism to the total environment” over time. In other words, how large-scale environmental changes affect us all personally, albeit in individualized ways. This commentary focuses the ways in which microbes, as an essential part of all ecosystems, provide a vital link between personal and planetary systems, and mediate the biopsychosocial aspects of our individualized experience—and thus health—over our life course journey. A more fine-grained understanding of these dynamics and our power to change them, personally and collectively, lies at the core of restoring “ecosystems balance” for person, place and planet. In particular, restoring human connectedness to the natural world, sense of community and shared purpose must occur in tandem with technological solutions, and will enhance individual empowerment for personal well-being, as well as our collective potential to overcome our grand challenges. Such knowledge can help shape the use of metaphor and re-imagine solutions and novel ways for restoration or rewilding of ecosystems, and the values, behaviors and attitudes to light the path toward exiting the Anthropocene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan L. Prescott
- The ORIGINS Project, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- inVIVO Planetary Health of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), West New York, NJ 10704, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Jeffrey S. Bland
- inVIVO Planetary Health of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), West New York, NJ 10704, USA;
- Personalized Lifestyle Medicine Institute, Tacoma, WA 98443, USA
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31
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Maund PR, Irvine KN, Reeves J, Strong E, Cromie R, Dallimer M, Davies ZG. Wetlands for Wellbeing: Piloting a Nature-Based Health Intervention for the Management of Anxiety and Depression. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16224413. [PMID: 31718035 PMCID: PMC6887757 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16224413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Nature-based health interventions (NBIs) for the treatment of poor mental health are becoming increasingly common, yet evidence to support their effectiveness is lacking. We conduct a pilot study of a six-week intervention, aiming to engage individuals with wetland nature for the treatment of anxiety and/or depression. We employed a mixed methods design, using questionnaires, focus groups and semi-structured interviews to evaluate the intervention from the perspective of participants (n = 16) and healthcare professionals (n = 2). Results demonstrate significant improvements in mental health across a range of indicators, including mental wellbeing (Warwick and Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale), anxiety (Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7), stress (Perceived Stress Scale) and emotional wellbeing (Positive and Negative Affect Schedule). Participants and healthcare professionals cited additional outcomes including improved physical health and reduced social isolation. The wetland site provided a sense of escape from participants’ everyday environments, facilitating relaxation and reductions in stress. Wetland staff knowledge of the natural world, transportation and group organisation also played a considerable role in the intervention’s success. These aspects should be considered in future and existing NBIs to maximise benefits to participants. We propose NBIs based in wetlands are an effective therapy option for individuals diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe R. Maund
- The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucester GL2 7BT, UK; (J.R.); (E.S.); (R.C.)
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE), School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 8NR, UK;
- Correspondence: or
| | - Katherine N. Irvine
- Social, Economic and Geographic Sciences, James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, UK;
| | - Jonathan Reeves
- The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucester GL2 7BT, UK; (J.R.); (E.S.); (R.C.)
| | - Emily Strong
- The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucester GL2 7BT, UK; (J.R.); (E.S.); (R.C.)
| | - Ruth Cromie
- The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucester GL2 7BT, UK; (J.R.); (E.S.); (R.C.)
| | - Martin Dallimer
- Sustainability Research Institute, School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds LS9 2JT, UK;
| | - Zoe G. Davies
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE), School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 8NR, UK;
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32
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Changes in perceptions of urban green space are related to changes in psychological well-being: Cross-sectional and longitudinal study of mid-aged urban residents. Health Place 2019; 59:102201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2019.102201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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