Adding More Green Can Make Life More Manageable

Life can be demanding and stressful – juggling schedules, work, meeting daily needs and commuting. Crowding, noise, and danger can all contribute to chronic mental fatique – leaving people less able to cope with major life issues. Several scientific studies by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have demonstrated that green views and access to green spaces may, in fact, help restore attention and relieve the everyday pressures. Social researchers are just beginning to discover that urban greenery provide another remarkable level of social services to residents.

Seeing green prevents people from being mean

Recent scientific studies have demonstrated that contact with nature may actually help reduce the incidence of aggression and violence in inner-city neighborhoods.

Greening neighborhoods can reduce crime

A series of studies showed that residents living in “greener” surroundings actually report lower levels of fear, fewer incivilities, and less violent behavior. The study also found that the greener a building’s surroundings, the fewer reported crimes.

Kids who spend more time outside end up paying more attention inside

A scientific study suggests the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children are relieved after contact with nature. ADHD kids were better able to concentrate, complete tasks, and follow directions after playing in natural settings.

Planting trees grows stronger neighborhoods

A recent study found that the more trees and common green spaces a community had, the more they were used by residents for social interaction. In other words, relationships between neighbors are made stronger simply through the presence of vegetation.

Views of nature help hospital recovery

Studies have shown that hospital patients with a window view of greenery recover faster and suffer fewer complications than those without such views.

Participating in greening activities builds community pride

Several studies have shown that participating in tree planting programs enhances individuals’ perception of their community. Conversely, a loss of trees within a community can have an adverse psychological effect on residents. Planting programs produce a visible sign of change that can kindle interest in other community improvement projects.

For more information about these and other scientific studies, visit:

Human Dimensions of Urban Forestry and Urban Greening

Landscape and Human Health Laboratory at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign