Did you know?
In land use planning, urban green space is open-space areas reserved for parks and areas of the natural environment.
In a recent Switcher.ie report, Limerick was ranked the worst urban area for work-life balance, with one of the factors considered being proximity to green spaces. The World Health Organization recommends that all people reside within 300m of green space.. They are also proven to have health benefits by providing urban residents a place for exercise and interaction. However, there are many initiatives throughout the city to nurture and further develop these important spaces.
Why are green spaces important in urban areas?
- Green urban areas improve air quality and help regulate temperatures, as plants absorb pollutants and release oxygen, while trees provide shade and help reduce the urban heat island effect.
- Green spaces offer people the opportunity for physical activity like walking and jogging, reducing the risk of health issues.
- These spaces also help improve mental health as exposure to nature and greenery has been linked to stress reduction, improved mood and decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- These areas also create a habitat for wildlife, increasing urban biodiversity and supporting local ecosystems.
- Green spaces increase property values, making neighbourhoods more attractive for buyers and renters as they enhance the aesthetic value of an area by providing a break from concrete landscapes.
Learn More…
Learn more about biodiversity in Limerick city…
https://www.limerick.ie/european-green-leaf-city/about/green-city
If you would like to learn more about managing urban green spaces and making them more biodiverse, pollinators.ie has a great resource on managing urban parks for pollinators and people.
https://pollinators.ie/managing-urban-parks-for-pollinators-and-people/
