Trees, jobs, health and equity in the urban forest

Abstract

This magazine article is an informal review of a wide range of research concerning environmental equity, specifically regarding human health benefits derived from experiences of nearby nature in urbanized places. The article recounts key issues of environmental equity, including green jobs and training programs. The primary purpose of the article is to share current knowledge about equitable access to trees, parks and gardens. The actionable information is aimed at professional and manager audiences who may have an interest in urban design and planning, as well as urban forestry. A framework of health benefits is described, including active living, stress reduction, mental health benefit, and social cohesion. Specific research findings are provided about the proven disparities of distribution of trees, parks and gardens in many cities, while noting that small-scale, inexpensive improvements in urban forestry and urban greening can generate remarkable benefit. The article ends with suggestions for how to encourage broader community participation in creating and managing nearby nature in cities. The article content was derived from the Green Cities: Good Health web site, a cooperative project of the USDA Forest Service (Research and S&P deputy areas) and University of Washington (Seattle), and is a research synthesis, science delivery product intended for professional and manager audiences.

Citation

Wolf, Kathleen L. 2017. Trees, jobs, health and equity in the urban forest. Tree Care Industry Magazine. 28(5): 62-64.