Natural environments contain the ingredients that enable life as we know it. The way we design our lives to fit within the natural environment is fundamental in determining our health and well-being. Our health stands to improve when local decisions enhance the ability of natural environments to mitigate negative health impacts associated with development.
Consider for instance, the capacity of a park to cool and filter the air in a dense neighbourhood, or the ability a greenway has to inspire active transport and access to nature; such interventions foster a livable environment, help encourage physical activity and promote better mental health. Learn more about how municipalities can foster healthy natural environments in the following areas.
• clean air & water
• climate action
• parks & greenspace
Excerpt from the Healthy Built Environment Linkages Toolkit: Download it here >>
