Evidence
The NHS Forest’s database of evidence and resources covers all aspects of green space and health. We have compiled the most relevant academic research, policy briefings, tools and reports covering a whole spectrum of issues, from biodiversity and climate change to green social prescribing and connection to nature.
Use the filters on the left to search for specific resource types or topics of interest. If you think we’ve missed something, do let us know at info@nhsforest.org.
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Why is nature beneficial? The role of connectedness to nature
Mayer et al., 2008
Three studies examine the effects of exposure to nature on positive affect and ability to reflect on a life problem. Participants spent 15 mins walking in a natural setting, an urban setting, or watching videos of natural and urban settings. In all three studies, exposure to nature increased connectedness to nature, attentional capacity, positive emotions, and ability to reflect on a life problem; these effects are more dramatic for actual nature than for virtual nature.
Children living in areas with more street trees have lower prevalence of asthma
Lovasi et al., 2008
Street trees are associated with a lower prevalence of early childhood asthma.
Pain in its environmental context: Implications for designing environments to enhance pain control
Malenbaum et al., 2008
This article discusses the environmental factors that influence pain perception and control, and argues that more natural environments, and less of the typical white walls and harsh lighting associated with hospital rooms, provide better environments in which to control and cope with pain.
Trees and woodlands: Nature’s health service
Forest Research, 2005
Aimed at health professionals, this report covers the ways that trees and woodlands can contribute to health and wellbeing – from stress reduction to physical activity to cultural importance.
View through a window may influence recovery from surgery
Ulrich, 1984
This is a seminal text on green space and health. This study found that cholecystectomy patients in hospital recovered more quickly with a view of trees and nature from their windows.