Community via Flickr
Working with local governments to support health equity through the built environment
commissioned by the BC Centre for Disease Control
Health equity means all people have a fair chance to reach their full health potential and are not disadvantaged by social, economic, and environmental conditions. Community design and the services and resources provided within them, directly influence people’s wellbeing. A commitment to health equity means planning communities to support the health of all it’s members including families impacted by low-incomes, children and youth, older adults, newcomers, Indigenous groups, and people living with physical or mental health challenges. The goal of this project is to identify opportunities for public health professionals to apply an equity lens when working with local governments to promote healthy public policy and planning processes. Learn more
Example of green planning: Fatih Vatan Street, Istanbul, Turkey, via LEA Invent
Urban green space, heat and air pollution: protecting the health of urban communities
commissioned by the David Suzuki Foundation
Unprecedented urban growth has intensified health risks from extreme heat exposure and air pollution. Green spaces have a natural capacity to filter and cool air, reduce surface temperatures, and provide relief from heat stress. Insufficient or poor quality green space in disadvantaged neighbourhoods can lead to disproportionate health burdens from heat and air pollution. This project explores how specific forms of green space can provide cooler, cleaner neighbourhoods for over 80% of Canadians who live in urban communities. Download the report
Toronto, Canada via Tish Carnat
Health and wellbeing benefits of urban green space
commissioned by Toronto Public Health
Green City: Why Nature Matters to Health – An Evidence Review A systematic examination of almost 15 years of peer reviewed evidence shows that urban green space is associated with at least 13 different positive health outcomes, including healthier births, reduced morbidity, and decreased stress. “Nature at your doorstep” may be particularly important for more vulnerable populations, particularly for those with reduced or limited mobility due to age, limited resources, or health barriers. Optimizing access to nearby green space may offer important opportunities for reducing health inequities. Find out more
Mother and Child via Becuo
Bonding Through Bars International Roundtable
In collaboration with the Peter Wall Institute for Advanced Studies, and the Collaborating Centre for Prison Health and Education (UBC)
Through an international symposium in Canada, this project set out a critical research and policy agenda to address the inadequate health supports for children of incarcerated parents. With delegates from five continents, the aim of the roundtable is to improve the intergenerational health outcomes of both mothers and their children. Project Update: New guidelines for mother-child prison units across Canada Find out more
Couple via babble.com
Aging at home: environmental needs and barriers
In Canada, the population of older adults living with chronic health conditions is increasing, yet there is a serious lack of capacity and coordination of services to support their needs, especially for those who want to stay at home. Group dialogues help to understand the intimate needs of older adults and those who love them. The deepest desire of most older adults is to return home, rather than receive premature institutional care. Preliminary findings explore unmet needs and barriers to meeting those needs. Find out more