Urban Pollution and Healthy Cities: Promoting Wellbeing Through Green Spaces
Pollution in cities is a serious problem affecting the health and wellbeing of millions worldwide. In Spain, around 30,000 people die each year due to pollution, according to the Barcelona Institute for Global Health. This alarming figure highlights the urgent need to address the issue effectively.
Beyond mortality, urban pollution is linked to an increase in chronic diseases. A 2023 study published in The Lancet revealed that in 93 European cities, home to 57 million people over 20, approximately 6,700 premature deaths are attributed to air pollution. This underscores the severity of the problem and the necessity of reducing urban population exposure.
Cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurological diseases are among the chronic conditions associated with urban air pollution. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over seven million people die annually worldwide due to poor air quality—equivalent to 13 deaths per minute.
Urban design also plays a critical role in air quality. The formation of the urban heat island effect is well documented, where city surfaces absorb and emit heat, raising temperatures. This not only creates warmer environments but can increase air pollutant concentrations due to higher industrial and vehicular activity.
Integrating green spaces into urban design can counteract these negative effects. Green areas act as carbon sinks, absorbing air pollutants and reducing harmful gas concentrations.
Proximity to green spaces near homes improves air quality and mitigates urban pollution while offering mental and physical health benefits. Studies show that access to green spaces promotes a relaxing environment, reducing stress and anxiety. Additionally, natural environments provide opportunities for outdoor physical activity, essential for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle.
As a result, proximity to green spaces can lower the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases while enhancing community wellbeing.
Healthy Cities Project: Planting Health in Urban Areas
The Healthy Cities project, launched in Madrid, represents an innovative approach to public health challenges in urban environments. In collaboration with Sanitas, the project aims to transform cities through promotion of healthy lifestyles and creation of more sustainable environments.
One key initiative is the commitment to plant a tree in Spanish cities for every person who, between May 1 and June 30, walks 6,000 steps daily and chooses to leave their car parked at least once a week.
This action increases green spaces in cities, promotes physical activity, and reduces air pollution by decreasing motor vehicle use.
The project’s significance lies in its integrative approach, recognizing the connection between human health and the urban environment. By encouraging tree planting and green space creation, Healthy Cities aims to improve air quality and promote citizens’ emotional and physical wellbeing.
In addition to tree planting, the project offers a digital platform providing information and tips on healthy and sustainable lifestyles. Through this platform, users can track their progress, access resources, and participate in health and urban environment activities.
To join the Healthy Cities challenge, interested individuals and organizations can download the official app to record daily activity and access guidance on healthy and sustainable habits. Participants also have opportunities to join contests and project-related activities.
Download the app here: Healthy Cities for Android or Healthy Cities for iPhone.
