Are Forests and Shrubland Good for Human Health?

Green is good. That's the lesson of a recent survey across America, which discovered that counties that are plentiful in forests and shrubland have lower Medicare expenditures than counties that primarily lie on other types of land. The researchers made sure to control for alternative explanations, such as economic differences and other geographic factors, leading them to conclude that greener areas appear to be healthier areas. The study, conducted by a team from the University of Illinois, examined all but 17 of the 3,103 counties in the continental United States.

According to one of the lead researchers, increasing the greenery in lower socioeconomic counties proved the most beneficial. "At first, I was surprised by this," grad student Douglas A. Becker said. "But then it occurred to me that low-income communities are getting the biggest bang for their buck because they probably have the most to gain." The study results noted that every 1 percent of a county that boasted forest areas saw a Medicare savings of $4.32 USD per person per year.

Forest facts:

• At least a quarter of all modern medicine comes from rainforest plants.
• The Amazon rainforest provides 20 percent of the oxygen on which life on Earth depends.
• The International Day of Forests is celebrated around the world on March 21 every year.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do forests and shrublands benefit human mental health?

Forests and shrublands offer significant mental health benefits by providing a serene environment that can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Exposure to these natural settings has been shown to lower cortisol levels, a stress hormone, and enhance mood. Nature walks in such environments can also improve attention and cognitive function, contributing to overall mental well-being.

Can spending time in forests and shrublands improve physical health?

Yes, spending time in forests and shrublands can lead to improved physical health. Activities like hiking and walking in these areas promote cardiovascular health and can help in managing weight. Additionally, the clean air found in natural settings is beneficial for respiratory health, and exposure to sunlight can aid in Vitamin D synthesis, which is crucial for bone health.

What is the impact of forests and shrublands on air quality?

Forests and shrublands play a critical role in improving air quality by acting as natural air filters. Trees and plants absorb pollutants like carbon dioxide and release oxygen through photosynthesis. According to the U.S. Forest Service, trees in urban areas alone remove 711,000 metric tons of air pollution annually, demonstrating the significant impact of green spaces on air quality.

Do forests and shrublands have any effect on community health?

Forests and shrublands contribute positively to community health by providing spaces for social interaction and physical activity, which are essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. They also support local ecosystems, which can contribute to food security through the provision of resources like fruits, nuts, and game, thereby supporting nutritional health in communities.

How does exposure to forests and shrublands influence stress levels?

Exposure to forests and shrublands has been shown to significantly reduce stress levels. The natural sounds, sights, and smells of these environments can trigger a relaxation response in the brain, leading to lower heart rates and reduced blood pressure. Studies have found that even short periods spent in nature can decrease stress-related symptoms, promoting a sense of tranquility.

Are there long-term health benefits associated with living near forests and shrublands?

Living near forests and shrublands can offer long-term health benefits, including a lower risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. The accessibility of natural spaces encourages regular physical activity and stress reduction, which are key factors in preventing these conditions. Moreover, the enhanced air quality and biodiversity also contribute to sustained health improvements over time.