From a conceptual framework for health effects of green space to guidelines for local policy makers

Background

Existing evidence on the diverse relationships between green space and health are categorized into four mechanisms and summarized in a conceptual model by RIVM. However, much remains unknown about the relationship between green space and health. This makes it difficult to develop clear standards to incorporate health considerations into public space design. RIVM has developed a set of specific ‘rules of thumb’ for spatial design to promote a greater focus on health in plans for the living environment.

Methods

A practice-oriented approach was used to develop guidelines for green living environments. A combination of desk research and consultations with professionals were combined with scientific studies and validation with experts of green space and health.

Results

The four distinguished mechanisms of green space in the living environment from the RIVM conceptual framework can be summarized as follows: 1)Reduce health damage; 2)Promote physical and mental recovery; 3)Encourage healthy behavior; 4) Cause health damage. However, much remains unknown about the relationship between green space and health. Based upon the current knowledge, RIVM has developed a set of specific ‘rules of thumb’ for spatial design to promote a greater focus on health in plans for the living environment: 1) A green view from every home; 2) 30 percent tree canopy cover on the neighbourhood level; 3) live within 300 meters walking distance of green space; 4) 350-500m2 green space from every home within a 5km range

Conclusions

Whether green space actually promotes health depends on certain preconditions. If these are not taken into account, the health potential cannot be realized or may even lead to health risks. The rules of thumb invite local and regional policymakers to engage in debate about health considerations. These rules are not mandatory, they do provide a well-founded framework for weighing choices and understanding their merits.

Key messages

• A set of specific ‘rules of thumb’ for spatial design to promote a greater focus on health in plans for the living environment, based upon a scientific evidence.

• Whether green space actually promotes health depends on certain preconditions. If these are not taken into account, the health potential cannot be realized or may even lead to health risks.