"Trees also reduce crime rates?"... The health benefits of nature that we pass by unconsciously

Climbing up the back mountain to do walking exercise

Seeing trees and grass makes me feel at ease.

There was a reason I was hesitant~

I should visit more often~

✔️ Trees that prevent heat: Prevention of heat-related illnesses

Due to climate change, temperatures are rising and heat is intensifying worldwide. In particular, the urban heat island effect causes asphalt and concrete to absorb heat during the day and release it at night, leading to higher temperatures. This can result in temperatures being up to 7°F (approximately 3.9°C) higher than in areas with abundant green spaces.

Trees and their leaves provide shade, preventing urban heat islands. This reduces heat-related illnesses, especially benefiting outdoor workers, children, the elderly, and vulnerable populations. A study published in The Lancet reported that increasing tree cover to 30% in 93 European cities could reduce heat-related premature deaths among adults by 40%.

✔️Good trees for children: improve mood, behavior, and attention

Spending more time in nature provides adults with various health benefits, including reduced blood pressure, improved sleep, and alleviation of chronic illnesses. These findings are increasing interest in outdoor healing activities guided by Forest Therapy.

Looking at studies conducted on children aged 4 to 6 earlier, it has been confirmed that children living near green spaces exhibit less hyperactivity and score higher on attention and visual memory tests. A study in Michigan, USA, involving children aged 7 to 9, revealed that students who could see trees from their school windows had fewer behavioral problems than those who could not.

In Finland, an experiment was conducted to mimic the outdoor play environment of daycare centers with the understory vegetation of forests. After four weeks, children in the daycare centers with the forest-like environment exhibited a healthier microbiome and showed improved indicators of their immune system.

✔️ The impact of green spaces on the community

Having green spaces near one's residence greatly enhances community welfare. According to a randomized trial conducted in a city in the United States, planting and maintaining grass and trees on neglected vacant lots resulted in a reduction in crime rates in areas below the poverty line. Residents living near these lush and green spaces felt safer and were found to use outdoor areas more frequently for relaxation and social activities.

Health Chosun Jeong Hee-eun eun@kormedi.com

Health/Fitness

"Trees also reduce crime rates?"... The health benefits of nature that we pass by unconsciously