There are several advantages to having green areas in your neighborhood, such as increased chances for outdoor activity, greater mental health, and cleaner air.
However, scientists have discovered another benefit that ought to concern parents.
According to research presented by the JAMA Network and published in the Environmental Health journal, children between the ages of four and six who live near green areas have higher bone density.
“These findings highlight the importance of early-life exposure to residential green space on bone health during critical periods of growth and development, with long-term implications,” the study’s conclusion stated.
Approximately 327 children in the age range, who were all residents of different parts of Flanders, Belgium, were followed up on from birth until 2021. The average height of the vegetation and the distance from the participants’ residential addresses determined the categories of green space.
After an ultrasound scan, those who were in total green and high green spaces (within 500 meters, or roughly 547 yards) showed increased bone density.
Better bone density lowers the chance of osteoporosis, a disorder that weakens and increases the likelihood of bone fractures, later in life, according to the Better Health Channel. Green places where children can play and run would undoubtedly assist with osteoporosis, as the condition can be caused by a variety of reasons, including poor diet and lack of activity.
The urban heat island effect is lessened in part by the presence of green spaces. Heat is absorbed by concrete structures and released back into the atmosphere through asphalt roads. This can lead to poor living conditions, health issues, or even death.
On the other hand, heat is absorbed and trapped by grasses, trees, and other vegetation, keeping the surrounding area cooler.
Parents should be aware of this as well, since colder environments will lessen the need for air conditioning units, which increase energy costs due to their high power consumption. Air or heat pumps, on the other hand, require significantly less energy, are less expensive to operate, and are better for the environment.
Additionally, hazardous pollutants from the air, such as those emitted by cars running on unclean gasoline, are absorbed by green areas. Children whose lungs are still maturing will be less likely to experience respiratory issues if there is cleaner air.
For instance, using an electric bus instead of one that operates on diesel or harmful gas to get to school lowers the chance of being sick and missing class, according to a research.
