Green Care: A Conceptual Framework - Frisk i naturen

to sustainable development in urban areas (Relf and Lohr, 2003; Brethour
et al, 2007).
In addition to contributing to biological diversity and providing habitats
for various plants, animals and insects, the ecological services and
environmental benefits provided by urban and rural greenspaces include
effects on microclimate, pollution and water dynamics and provide
attractive views (Relf and Lohr, 2003; Brethour et al, 2007). Trees in
cities can moderate the ‘heat island’ effect and can help to reduce climate
extremes. Green infrastructure can provide shelter against wind and noise,
and can reduce glare and reflection from buildings. Plants act as a sink for
carbon and produce oxygen. Air quality improvements can occur from the
removal of pollutants (both gaseous and particular contaminants) by urban
trees. Plants have also been used to remove contaminants from soil. Green,
natural areas reduce surface water run-off in built up areas, improving flood
control and enabling the recharge of groundwater stocks.
As previously highlighted in this report, nature and plants can provide
stress reduction, decrease discomfort, introduce calming effects, increase
positive emotions, reduce aggression, improve concentration, and
encourage active and healthy lifestyles. Rural areas and urban greenspaces
can provide areas in which city dwellers can relax and unwind and
the health benefits associated with urban greening can range from the
individual to the community and population level.
Urban greening also provides economic benefits in terms of reduced
heating and cooling costs for buildings, improved property values,
enhanced beauty and improved privacy and security of buildings and
communities (Relf and Lohr 2003; Brethour et al, 2007).
Urban greening can bring about social benefits by raising the quality of
neighbourhoods which in turn fosters civil behaviour and responsibilities.
Increased social benefits are gained when citizens are actively involved
in urban ‘community’ greening. Urban community greening refers “to
the leadership and active participation of city residents who take it upon
themselves to build healthier sustainable communities through planning
and caring for “socio-ecological spaces” and the associated flora, fauna,
and structures” (Tidball and Krasny, 2006). Communities have used urban
greening projects successfully to combat against neighbourhood crime and
other social problems. Urban community greening can therefore be a tool
61