Research Highlights Mental Health Benefits of Urban Green and Blue Spaces Amidst Increasing Urbanization
More than half of the global population now resides in cities, a trend that continues to reshape daily living conditions. Urban green and blue spaces, such as parks, community gardens, urban forests, rivers, and coastal waterfronts, are increasingly recognized as vital public health assets within city life. A significant body of evidence suggests a link between proximity to urban nature and reduced psychological distress, improved mood, and stronger neighborhood cohesion. However, the psychological experience of these spaces is deeply intertwined with the material realities of urban living, including perceived quality, microclimatic comfort, ambient soundscapes, biodiversity, air quality, transport noise, and perceived safety. These factors, along with accessibility—encompassing physical proximity, affordance, walkability, social inclusion, and equitable distribution—all influence how individuals interact with and benefit from these natural environments. The research emphasizes the need to understand the p... 
