Latest news with #urbanforests
Yahoo
16 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
Fremont's Tree Symposium explores urban forests, climate and maple syrup
Area residents can learn about urban forests and how to make maple syrup during the second annual Tree Symposium on Sept. 5 at Spiegel Grove. The event is organized by the Hayes Presidential Library & Museums and is open to the public, according to a community announcement. It will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with check-in beginning at 8 a.m. in the auditorium of the Hayes Presidential Library & Museums. Registration fees are $40 per person for non-members, $35 for Hayes Presidential members and $22 for students. Lunch is included with registration, according to the announcement. The symposium's schedule includes a variety of sessions and guest presenters. The day begins with check-in, coffee and donuts, followed by a welcome from Christie Weininger, executive director of the Hayes Presidential Library & Museums. Deb Nofzinger, program supervisor for the Sandusky County Park District, is expected to present on tapping and making maple syrup. Ross Ellet, meteorologist for 13ABC, will discuss changing climate conditions. John Havens, building and grounds superintendent for Hayes Presidential, is set to lead a tree tour of Spiegel Grove. Thomas deHaas from Ohio State University Extension, Erie County, is scheduled to present on diseases and pests affecting urban forests. Stephanie Miller, regional urban forester for Northwest Ohio, will discuss native trees in urban forests. The Hayes Presidential Library & Museums is recognized as America's first presidential library and is a Level 2 arboretum, accredited by The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program and The Morton Arboretum. Level 2 arboreta are required to have at least 100 species of trees and meet certain professional standards. The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program is described as the only global initiative to officially recognize arboreta at various levels of development and professionalism, according to the announcement. For more information and to register for the Tree Symposium, visit This story was created by Jane Imbody, jimbody@ with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at This article originally appeared on Fremont News-Messenger: Fremont Tree Symposium returns with nature-focused sessions Solve the daily Crossword
The Independent
7 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
This amount of time in nature could boost your mental health
New research from Stanford University indicates that spending as little as 15 minutes daily in nature significantly improves the mental health of city residents. The study, published in Nature Cities, found that both stationary and active time in green spaces are beneficial, with stationary time proving more effective at reducing negative mental health outcomes such as depression. While all types of urban nature offer benefits, urban forests were identified as most effective for alleviating depression and anxiety. Young adults showed even greater improvements, a crucial finding given that most mental health disorders manifest before the age of 25. Researchers aim to use these findings to advise urban planners on increasing green spaces to prevent mental health disorders, reduce healthcare costs, and provide additional environmental benefits.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Spending just 15 minutes in nature can have this surprising health benefit
Spending as little as 15 minutes a day in nature can provide a huge boost to the mental health of city-dwellers, according to new research. For millions of people across the country living in busy urban environments, finding a touch of nature can be challenging. But data from a team at Stanford University in California shows it could be worth the effort, particularly for young adults. The study, published in the journal Nature Cities, reported 'significant benefits' of spending even a short time in nature for a broad range of mental health conditions, saying the data showed a 'mental health solution'. More than 80 per cent of the UK population lives in urban areas, government statistics show, with the number expected to continue to grow. Analysis of close to 5,900 participants found they didn't need to be active to feel an improvement, with stationary time in green spaces found to be more effective at reducing negative mental health outcomes like depression than active time in nature. They found all types of urban nature provided benefits, but urban forests were the best for reducing depression and anxiety. Young adults experienced even greater benefits than the general population, researchers said, which they added was 'important' because 'most mental health disorders emerge before the age of 25'. The team hopes to help advise urban planners and decision-makers in cities, using models to predict how increased green spaces could help prevent mental health disorders and bring down healthcare costs, as well as bringing 'additional benefits' like lowering temperatures and sequestering carbon. 'For example, we could run scenarios like: if a city currently has 20 per cent green space or tree cover, how many preventable cases of mental health disorders could be avoided if that were increased to 30 per cent?' said lead author Lingjie Li. ' We will also be working to include estimates of the potential avoided healthcare costs associated with such improvements in urban nature.' They added that while larger city parks and forests are 'critical', urban planners should also consider including 'pocket parks' and planting more trees on streets to help bring the benefits of nature into dense urban areas. Dr Li said doing the work has improved his own lifestyle, adding that he now walks to the office more frequently and finds he is more curious about birds and plants he encounters along the way. 'I also talk to my friends about thinking this way and encourage them to notice how even small moments with nature can make a difference,' he said. 'This work has helped me see that urban nature isn't just good for cities – it's good for us.'
The Independent
7 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
Spending just 15 minutes in nature can have this surprising health benefit
Spending as little as 15 minutes a day in nature can provide a huge boost to the mental health of city-dwellers, according to new research. For millions of people across the country living in busy urban environments, finding a touch of nature can be challenging. But data from a team at Stanford University in California shows it could be worth the effort, particularly for young adults. The study, published in the journal Nature Cities, reported 'significant benefits' of spending even a short time in nature for a broad range of mental health conditions, saying the data showed a 'mental health solution'. More than 80 per cent of the UK population lives in urban areas, government statistics show, with the number expected to continue to grow. Analysis of close to 5,900 participants found they didn't need to be active to feel an improvement, with stationary time in green spaces found to be more effective at reducing negative mental health outcomes like depression than active time in nature. They found all types of urban nature provided benefits, but urban forests were the best for reducing depression and anxiety. Young adults experienced even greater benefits than the general population, researchers said, which they added was 'important' because 'most mental health disorders emerge before the age of 25'. The team hopes to help advise urban planners and decision-makers in cities, using models to predict how increased green spaces could help prevent mental health disorders and bring down healthcare costs, as well as bringing 'additional benefits' like lowering temperatures and sequestering carbon. 'For example, we could run scenarios like: if a city currently has 20 per cent green space or tree cover, how many preventable cases of mental health disorders could be avoided if that were increased to 30 per cent?' said lead author Lingjie Li. ' We will also be working to include estimates of the potential avoided healthcare costs associated with such improvements in urban nature.' They added that while larger city parks and forests are 'critical', urban planners should also consider including 'pocket parks' and planting more trees on streets to help bring the benefits of nature into dense urban areas. Dr Li said doing the work has improved his own lifestyle, adding that he now walks to the office more frequently and finds he is more curious about birds and plants he encounters along the way. 'I also talk to my friends about thinking this way and encourage them to notice how even small moments with nature can make a difference,' he said. 'This work has helped me see that urban nature isn't just good for cities – it's good for us.'
Sustainability Times
01-07-2025
- General
- Sustainability Times
Toronto's Stunning Green Revolution Turns Canada's Largest Metropolis Into a Vast Urban Forest Visible From Space
IN A NUTSHELL 🌿 Toronto has transformed former industrial sites into lush urban forests, serving as a model for sustainable urban development. has transformed former industrial sites into lush urban forests, serving as a model for sustainable urban development. 🌍 The city is recognized by the UNEP for its efforts in urban ecosystem restoration, part of the Generation Restoration project. for its efforts in urban ecosystem restoration, part of the Generation Restoration project. 🏞️ With over 186 miles of trails, Toronto's urban forests and wetlands provide recreational and biodiversity benefits. 🤝 A robust legal framework and community engagement underpin the city's success in integrating nature into urban planning. Toronto, the bustling metropolis with a population of around 3 million, stands as Canada's largest city and North America's fastest-growing urban center. Amidst the concrete jungle, Toronto has managed to create an exceptional blend of urban living and nature. Just a few miles from the city's vibrant downtown core lies the Don Valley Brick Works, a former quarry transformed into a thriving wetland. This urban sanctuary, home to a diverse range of wildlife including ducks, foxes, and even deer, exemplifies Toronto's dedication to integrating nature into its urban fabric. This dedication has earned the city recognition from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) as a model for urban ecosystem restoration. Transforming Urban Spaces into Natural Sanctuaries Toronto's transformation of the Don Valley Brick Works is a testament to its commitment to restoring natural spaces within urban environments. Over three decades, what was once a barren quarry became a lush wetland, fringed by residential and commercial developments. This urban oasis is part of a broader effort to weave nature into the city's fabric. The UNEP has recognized this initiative as part of its Generation Restoration project, which promotes ecosystem restoration in urban areas worldwide. By prioritizing the restoration of natural spaces, Toronto has set a precedent for other cities looking to balance urban development with environmental sustainability. The impact of these efforts is profound, with urban forests and wetlands moderating temperatures, purifying air, and providing recreational opportunities for city residents. The Role of Urban Forests and Wetlands Toronto's urban forests and wetlands play a crucial role in the city's sustainability strategy. The city boasts over 186 miles of maintained trails and canoe-able rivers, offering residents ample opportunities to connect with nature. The network of ravines and valleys, covering about 27,000 acres or 17 percent of the city's area, serves as a natural flood mitigation system. These areas not only absorb rainfall but also support a rich biodiversity. The urban forest, comprising approximately 11.5 million trees, includes species such as sugar maple and white pine, providing habitat for various bird species. By preserving these natural spaces, Toronto has created a resilient urban environment that promotes biodiversity and enhances the quality of life for its residents. Legal Frameworks and Community Engagement Toronto's success in urban ecosystem restoration is underpinned by a robust legal framework and active community engagement. The city has implemented laws and regulations that prioritize resilience and biodiversity, including bylaws that preserve street trees and incentivize sustainable development. Community involvement is key to maintaining these natural spaces, with initiatives that encourage residents to participate in tree planting and maintenance activities. The city also collaborates with Indigenous communities, drawing on traditional land stewardship practices to restore ecosystems. Through these efforts, Toronto not only protects its natural heritage but also fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility for the environment. A Global Model for Urban Restoration Toronto's achievements in urban ecosystem restoration have positioned it as a global model for sustainable urban development. As part of the UNEP's Generation Restoration project, the city collaborates with other cities around the world to share best practices and innovative solutions. This global network includes cities like Montreal and Glasgow, each implementing unique strategies to restore and protect their natural environments. Through international collaboration, Toronto is helping to build a global movement towards integrating nature into urban planning. The city's experience demonstrates the potential for urban areas to thrive alongside nature, offering valuable lessons for cities worldwide. Toronto's commitment to urban restoration serves as an inspiring example of how cities can balance growth with environmental sustainability. By prioritizing the integration of natural spaces, the city has created a vibrant, livable environment that benefits both residents and wildlife. As urban populations continue to grow, how can other cities learn from Toronto's success to create sustainable, nature-rich urban landscapes? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (23)
