According to the World Economic Forum, the deadliest type of pollution is air pollution. While in 2016, the World Health Organisation reported that 92% of the global population lives in areas where air pollution exceeds the limits for health and safety.
Indeed, countries must find ways to decrease the amount of air pollution. While significant changes must be made, urban green spaces are always a great place to start. It’s undeniable that these areas could contribute to the overall decline of pollution.
In this post, we’re going to discuss how urban green areas can help improve the quality of air in towns and cities.
Providing Comfort to Urban Areas
If you live in a highly populated city or town, you’ll likely experience the “urban heat island effect”. Industrial buildings, shops, houses, and vehicles generate heat on a daily basis. Unfortunately, the concrete roads, pathways, and buildings keep the heat at pedestrian level and prevent it from rising into the atmosphere. As a result, the temperature in the cities increases more compared to surrounding rural areas.
The environment can suffer because of the urban heat island effect. During warmer months, residents tend to use their air conditioning units more, causing energy consumption to increase. Consequently, greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution also go up.
Now, how do green spaces provide comfort in urban areas? Well, when you have more trees and plants in highly populated cities, you provide shade and moisture.
Shade in Urban Areas
Greenery and large trees offer shade from the sunlight in urban areas. As a result, the city experiences a decrease in its overall temperature. Of course, that also contributes to lowering the planet’s overall temperature.
Moisture in Urban Areas
Aside from providing shade in urban areas, plants also undergo a transpiration process. Trees carry moisture from their roots to the underside of their leaves. Then, these plants release moisture into the atmosphere. During the process, the moisture in the air contributes to lowering warm temperatures. It also prevents humid air from occurring for residents in urban areas.
Providing Cleaner Air in Urban Areas
A study published on Nature.com revealed that air pollution has caused the premature death of over three million people. Individuals inhale irritant gases that cause airway issues and worsen pre-existing heart or lung conditions.
Now, how do urban green spaces improve people’s health? Well, greenery absorbs the existing gaseous pollutants in the air. During the process, these plants release more oxygen into the atmosphere. The higher levels of oxygen coming from green areas fight the harmful effects of air pollution in densely populated cities. As a result, these places enjoy higher-quality air.
It’s also worth noting that plants prevent health problems like dehydration and eye damage. As part of photosynthesis, greenery deflects the sun’s radiation. By reflecting the sunlight, the rays become weaker, reducing the effects of UV exposure. Indeed, the overall effects of green urban spaces are immensely positive for the planet and its inhabitants.
Develop Urban Green Spaces with the Help of Cox Urban Furniture
At Cox Urban Furniture, we specialise in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional urban green spaces. We provide 100% Australian-made planter boxes that bring a natural and relaxing look to parks. We also offer a range of park and street furniture that is built to withstand the harsh weather conditions in the country.
If you’re ready to create a wonderful urban green space, contact Cox Urban Furniture today!
