Green space better for young brains than we realised

Scientific research, reported in The Guardian this week, on the specific benefits of green spaces for young people’s behaviour and cognitive development is catching up with established wellbeing claims. Recent studies reveal that exposure to green spaces reduces behavioural problems, boosts cognitive function, and may even enhance academic achievement.??

The significance of green spaces for overall wellbeing is well-documented. In the landmark 2010 Marmot review on health and inequality, Michael Marmot highlighted that “creating a physical environment in which people can live healthier lives with a greater sense of wellbeing is crucial in reducing health inequalities.” The review cited numerous studies linking green spaces to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, improved mental health, reduced stress levels, better general health, and enhanced problem-solving abilities.?

Now, research shows that green spaces have a positive impact on young people’s cognitive development. For example, a 2015 study by Barcelona’s Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology monitored 2,500 children and found that those attending schools with more green space had better working memory and less inattentiveness. Researchers suggest that this positive effect may be partially due to lower levels of air pollution.??

Further research from Belgium, published in Plos Medicine, supports these findings and concludes that children in greener areas have higher IQs and lower levels of behavioural issues. An analysis of over 600 students aged 10 to 15 found that a 3% increase in neighbourhood greenness raised IQ scores by an average of 2.6 points, particularly benefiting children at the lower end of the spectrum.?

Other studies have found that children with more green space near their homes have significantly stronger bones, leading to lifelong health benefits, and that greener play areas boost young people's immune systems. A 2017 Norwegian study concluded that for some young people, high doses of nature might even be an effective alternative to medication for attention disorders.?

A Unicef discussion paper, "The Necessity of Urban Green Space for Children’s Optimal Development," identifies numerous benefits for those aged 15 to 17, including increased physical activity, improved attention, greater capacity to cope with stress, lower blood pressure and cortisol levels, and increased enthusiasm for learning.??

At Newbury College, we are fortunate to have beautiful green spaces such as the Hart Space (the large green area between the main building and the Renewables Centre / Sports Hall) and the Health Walk around the College Lake. These areas are not just scenic but integral to wellbeing and academic success, helping to enhance cognitive abilities, reduce stress, and improve overall health.?