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“This report confirms that abundant urban green spaces are essential for our health,” said Tara Zupancic, public health researcher and lead author of the report. “After reviewing more than 100 recent studies, we have concluded that communities that invest in vibrant urban green spaces can reap significant benefits. Protection from extreme temperatures and air pollution can reduce illness and even save lives.”
Cooling and air quality benefits are maximized when green spaces are protected and connected. The report also highlights growing evidence that poor quality green spaces and ‘green deserts’ are more often found in low-income inner-city neighbourhoods, intensifying existing heat and air-polluton related health risks.
The David Suzuki Foundation:
We’re ready to take this information to Canada’s streets, with new opportunities like ensuring that some of our most vulnerable communities are not left behind as we green our cities.
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