If current global trends are correct, by 2025, approx 41 million people will die from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs)—including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and severe mental illness—accounting for approximately 74% of all deaths globally. Despite major advances in medicine over the past few decades, the number of people dying from NCD is still increasing.
One of the main factors increasing NCDs is urbanization: Research shows clearly that people living in urban areas without access to green spaces have higher rates of NCD. Assuming that by 2050, two out of three people tend to live in cities, these trends are extremely worrying.
On the other hand, a number of recent studies are at the population level in cities across the globe indicate people who live there greener area not only have lower rates of NCD but also significantly better physical health and well-being. mental health. This relationship remained statistically strong regardless of the individual's socioeconomic status, age, or gender. In fact, the evidence for this link is so strong that by 2022, 196 countries around the world United Nations Conference of the Parties on Biodiversity signed an international treaty, part of which includes a commitment to significantly increase urban green space by 2030.
What is it about green spaces that fights NCDs? Greater opportunities for exercise, cleaner air and less heat stress are all reasons that have been put forward, with evidence supporting some role of urban vegetation in these aspects .
Importantly, there is also solid scientific evidence showing that when we interact directly with nature, biochemical pathways are activated in our bodies leading to significant effects. beneficial effects for health. This research topic began with a group of Japanese scientists trying to determine the true benefits of forest bathing—shinrin-yoku. The evidence they found is so convincing that now, in Japan, instead of medication, patients with certain non-communicable diseases are prescribed it. Spend time sitting in the woods.
The good news is that we can achieve the same health benefits in urban green spaces and indoor vegetation. Clinical trials show something as simple as having one Vase of unscented roses for example, being on your desk can significantly lower your blood pressure and bring about physiological and psychological calm. Therefore, you can also grow leafy plants in your home and office, especially those with green and yellow foliage.