Urban green spaces: lessons from COVID-19 for future public health crises.
Natália Cristina de Oliveira, Giovanni Sanesi, Teresa Cristina Brazil de Paiva et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review analyzed 155 studies to assess the impact of urban green spaces (UGS) during the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlighted changes in visitation patterns, emphasizing proximity to residential areas as a key factor for outdoor activities. The review identified significant inequalities in UGS access, particularly for low-income and vulnerable communities, and proposed five policy recommendations to enhance UGS's role in public health crises.
Key findings
- The pandemic reshaped UGS visitation patterns, with proximity to residential areas being a key determinant.
- There are persistent inequalities in UGS access, especially among low-income and ethnic minority communities.
- Five policy recommendations were made to improve UGS management and accessibility during public health crises.
Why it matters
Understanding the role of urban green spaces during health crises is crucial for public health planning. Ensuring equitable access to these spaces can enhance community resilience and promote physical and mental well-being, particularly in vulnerable populations.