Urban green space provision: the case for policy-based solutions to support human health
Date
2025
Authors
Williams, C.
Byrne, C.
Evenden, S.
Soebarto, V.
Caddy-Retalic, S.
Williams, C.
Tefera, Y.
Feng, X.
Lowe, A.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Medical Journal of Australia, 2025; 222(3):110-113
Statement of Responsibility
Craig Williams, Christie Byrne, Shannon Evenden, Veronica Soebarto, Stefan Caddy-Retalic, Carmel Williams, Yonatal Tefera, Xiaoqi Feng, Andrew Lowe
Conference Name
Abstract
As one of the world’s most urbanised nations,Australia1 is particularly vulnerable to diseases causally linked with urban living.2 Further urban growth requires systemic health policy solutions. Urban green spaces (UGS) are dynamic contributors to the wellbeing of our cities, offering benefits to the health of humans, society, and natural and managed ecosystems. Here we define UGS to encompass planned and intentional green spaces such as parks, curated gardens, sports and recreation areas as well as urban forests and nature reserves, and unconventional green zones such as easements, road and infrastructure routes, streetscapes and commercial precincts. Increasing urban infill and expansion of housing across Australian major cities is placing greater pressure on green assets as both places of recreation and refuge for communities.3 The expansion of essential grey infrastructure is important for ensuring equity of access to services and facilities for all residents but, nevertheless, increases pressure on UGS. Here we explain the public health benefits of UGS. We identify barriers to the provision of sufficient, equitable UGS and describe the disconnect between the resourcing required to achieve this and the health and productivity gains resulting from it. In doing this, we make a case for policy-based solutions.
School/Discipline
Dissertation Note
Provenance
Description
First published: 27 December 2024
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Rights
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