Green infrastructure systems have been on the rise in recent years, as more and more people recognize the benefits that they bring. They not only create healthy environments but also provide balance to the crowded urban cityscape.
Green spaces can range from parks and recreational areas to something as simple as people’s own backyards at home. Learn more about the advantages of putting up more green spaces in cities.
Reducing the Heat Island Effect
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines heat islands as areas that are warmer compared to surrounding rural areas. Since most cities have more concrete than grass, heat is easily stored. These heat islands can greatly affect communities, particularly during the summer months.
They usually result in decreased productivity, higher energy consumption, and increased presence of greenhouse gases and air pollutants. According to the EPA, the average temperature for a city of one million people is around 1.8 to 5.4 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than surroundings.
Promoting More Livable Cities
More than helping improve a city’s landscape, green spaces and infrastructure make the city more livable for its residents. For one, exposure to nature and green spaces helps people reduce their stress and anxiety, according to environmental psychologists.As a result, people get to improve their productivity, as well as their mental health.
Life in the city usually means working extra hard; thus, cognitive overload. Walking along green spaces can help ease the pain of information overload and mental fatigue. Exposure to nature can also fuel people’s creative juices and foster positive psychological effects, such as peace of mind and happiness.
U.S. cities, whether it is New York or Lehi, all have natural spaces to explore for the betterment of their communities and residents. For example, communities can get tree service professionals for the proper care and maintenance for their trees.
Cutting Carbon Emissions
The soil from green spaces and backyards helps absorb carbon in the air, reducing carbon emissions. One study even shows that backyard soil can absorb more harmful carbon emissions compared to native grasslands and forests. This makes building urban green spaces all the more important to provide residents with cleaner and healthier air.
Regulating Water Consumption
Green spaces also involve the use of green roofs. Green roofs act as a sponge of some sort, absorbing water, which means reduced sewage overflow. Water absorbed on green roofs will slow the rate of flow, helping regulate the process. This is important because many cities remain lacking in terms of green infrastructure.
Providing Economic Advantages
Aside from their many natural upsides, green infrastructure systems also add economic value to any given city. Green spaces increase property and land value, as well.
With all these benefits, there is no doubt that green infrastructure and spaces are worth keeping in cities and being integrated into urban planning. Many people would agree that a nice change of pace and scenery compared to a gray and gritty city can greatly help boost the benefits mentioned above, bringing life to an urban jungle.