The Contribution of Urban Green and Blue Spaces to the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals: An Evidence Gap Map

Tate, Christopher; Hunter, Ruth F.; Wang, Ruoyu; Akaraci, Selin; Burns, Katie; Garcia, Leandro Martin Totaro; Clarke, Mike

doi:10.2139/ssrn.4264138

Cited by 4 publications

(3 citation statements)

References 201 publications

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“…From providing crucial habitats for diverse flora and fauna to offering corridors for wildlife movement, these green havens contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation. Moreover, their role in maintaining ecological balance, mitigating the urban heat island effect, and fostering community engagement underscores the holistic impact of urban green spaces on environmental health and sustainability (Tate et al, 2024). As cities evolve, the preservation and expansion of these green oases become paramount, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between urban development and the preservation of Earth's diverse ecosystems.…”

Section: Biodiversity Preservation In Urban Green Spacesmentioning

confidence: 99%

Urban green spaces and their impact on environmental health: A Global Review

Blessing Aibhamen Edeigba,

Ugochukwu Kanayo Ashinze,

Aniekan Akpan Umoh

et al. 2024

World J. Adv. Res. Rev.

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Urbanization has become an irreversible global phenomenon, with a majority of the world's population residing in cities. As urban areas expand, the significance of incorporating green spaces into these landscapes is paramount for environmental health. This study provides a concise overview of a global review that explores the multifaceted impact of urban green spaces on sustainability, well-being, and ecological balance. Urban green spaces play a crucial role in biodiversity preservation, acting as vital habitats for diverse plant and animal species. These spaces contribute to the maintenance of urban ecosystems, fostering ecological balance in densely populated areas. The presence of varied flora and fauna supports environmental health by enhancing biodiversity and promoting a more sustainable urban environment. One of the significant contributions of urban green spaces is their role in improving air quality. Through the natural process of photosynthesis, plants absorb pollutants and release oxygen, serving as an effective filtration system. Trees, in particular, act as natural air purifiers, reducing the concentration of airborne particles and pollutants. This contributes to enhanced air quality, mitigating the adverse effects of urban pollution on environmental health. Urban green spaces also play a pivotal role in temperature regulation, combating the phenomenon of urban heat islands. By providing shade and reducing surface temperatures, greenery helps create a cooler and more comfortable urban living environment. This temperature regulation not only contributes to the well-being of residents but also addresses the challenges posed by rising temperatures in urban areas. Beyond environmental considerations, access to urban green spaces has profound effects on the mental and physical well-being of urban dwellers. These spaces serve as outlets for recreation, exercise, and relaxation, contributing to stress reduction and improved mental health. Additionally, urban green spaces act as hubs for social interaction and community engagement, fostering a sense of belonging and strengthening social cohesion. In conclusion, this global review emphasizes the pivotal role of urban green spaces in promoting environmental health through biodiversity preservation, air quality improvement, temperature regulation, and enhancing overall well-being. Recognizing the multifaceted benefits of these spaces is crucial for guiding sustainable urban development practices worldwide.

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Section: Biodiversity Preservation In Urban Green Spacesmentioning

confidence: 99%

Urban green spaces and their impact on environmental health: A Global Review

Blessing Aibhamen Edeigba,

Ugochukwu Kanayo Ashinze,

Aniekan Akpan Umoh

et al. 2024

World J. Adv. Res. Rev.

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show abstract

“…28 However, the evidence base for the effects of UGBS on sustainable development in lowincome and middleincome countries (LMICs) is poor, which is particularly concerning for countries undergoing rapid urbanisation with little resources. 29 UGBS can contribute to the achievement of multiple sustainable development goals and their related targets. 29,30 UGBS are important elements to strengthen action against the climate and biodiversity crises, 31,32 and have key roles in contributing to naturebased solutions, which are defined as "actions to protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural or modified ecosystems, that address societal challenges effectively and adaptively, simultaneously providing human wellbeing and bio diversity benefits".…”

Section: Ugbs Contributions To Global Policy Goalsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Advancing urban green and blue space contributions to public health

Hunter,

Nieuwenhuijsen,

Fabian

et al. 2023

The Lancet Public Health

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“…35 UGS also address the UK Government's UN Sustainable Development Goal 36 requirements and aligns with WHO policy. 6 A recent paper 37 reviewed the evidence for UGS in achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). The majority of the 181 included papers addressed SDG 3 (health and well-being), SDG 11 (inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities) and SDG 13 (combat climate change).…”

Section: Current Policymentioning

confidence: 99%

Urban green and blue spaces for influencing physical activity in the United Kingdom: A narrative review of the policy and evidence

Leese,

Al‐Zubaidi

2023

Lifestyle Medicine

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IntroductionWith the rapid growth of urbanization globally and in the UK, increasing attention is now being directed towards urban green spaces (UGS). The appeal of UGS to policymakers lies in their capacity to address multiple policy objectives, including improving physical and mental wellbeing, mitigating noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), combating climate change through carbon sequestration, providing climate adaptation measures, and enhancing biodiversity.MethodThis narrative review gives an overview of the current literature and UK policy relating to urban green and blue spaces, with a particular focus on the use of UGS to increase physical activity levels.ResultsUGS have a profound impact on public health, with evidence indicating their positive effect on both physical and psychological health. Thirty‐eight percent of adults in the UK do not live within 15 minutes of UGS, so policy makers at national and international level are aiming to address this gap. One reason for the health benefits of UGS is associated increased physical activity, a vital component needed to address the burden of non‐communicable disease. To effectively harness UGS to promote physical activity various factors must be considered; proximity and diversity of urban green spaces, and the presence of suitable infrastructure features. Tailoring UGS to meet the needs and preferences of different population demographics is essential, as is ensuring safety, and addressing barriers to access particularly for lower socio‐economic groups. The careful planning of UGS must avoid potential gentrification effects and displacement of vulnerable communities, whilst utilising the equigenic nature of UGS.ConclusionsTo create a brighter future and capitalize on the potential of UGS, a collaborative approach is needed, involving communities, local governments, and national authorities. Primary‐care professionals, represented by organizations like the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP), can play a crucial role in advocating for UGS and physical activity, promoting their use, and providing guidance and support.

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The Contribution of Urban Green and Blue Spaces to the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals: An Evidence Gap Map

Cited by 4 publications

References 201 publications

Urban green spaces and their impact on environmental health: A Global Review

Urban green spaces and their impact on environmental health: A Global Review

Advancing urban green and blue space contributions to public health

Urban green and blue spaces for influencing physical activity in the United Kingdom: A narrative review of the policy and evidence

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