We all know that trees, forests and green spaces are an important part of our planetary eco-system, but what about how they impact our physical and mental health?
According to a new survey carried out by Harris Poll for the Arbor Day Foundation, 82% of Americans consider spending time around trees and green spaces important for their mental well-being.
The survey is part of a new study to examine how Americans think about and interact with trees and green spaces.
It also found 85% of respondents say “spending time in nature, surrounded by trees” is like a “reset button for my mind and soul”, while 77% agree that “being among trees is my happy place”.
The survey also found 89% of respondents see trees as a public health tool, and 88% agree forests and communities need more trees.
Foundation chief executive Dan Lambe said in an interview “there has never been a more important time for trees” as the world tries to tackle issues like the climate crisis, extreme heat and rising childhood asthma rates.
“The big lesson for us is that people get it,” Lambe told me. “Nine and 10 of Americans agree that trees are a must-have, not just a nice-to-have.
“And they also recognise that it takes government, non-government and private sector leaders to make a difference in this situation.”
Lambe said the survey also reflects how many Americans feel that “climate change is on our doorsteps” with almost two thirds of respondents saying they have experienced its impacts in one shape or another.
“People are recognizing their kids are having to walk to school on blazing sidewalks,” said Lambe.
“They are seeing their summers stretch into the fall. These weather events are being created by our changing climate, and people are making those connections. Trees can add to their quality of life in the neighborhoods where they live.
“We also know people want more access to trees and green spaces,” he added.
“One thing we learnt from this survey was more than 50% of Americans have to drive to their parks or green spaces, so we need to plant more trees in our communities and neighborhoods.”
Peter James, an associate professor at the UC Davis Department of Public Health Sciences, explained in an interview there are a number of studies which demonstrate the benefits to our mental health when we walk in nature, particularly in the short-term.
For example, in February, researchers at the Texas A&M University School of Public Health published a study which suggests that city dwellers who have more exposure to urban green spaces require fewer mental health services.
James quoted the biologist E. O. Wilson who helped popularise the term biophilia, which refers to our innate human instinct to connect with nature and may be why being outdoors helps us feel better.
“In the nature and health research world, we see a consistent benefit for mental health when we think about living in greener environments,” James told me.
“If you live in an area that is generally greener, we have seen that mortality rates are generally lower, and there is a lower incidence of depression, lower incidence of anxiety, and we’ve looked at this in adults and in children, and many other groups have as well. There is this direct pathway.”
