URBES Fact sheet #2: Biodiversity and ecosystem services: the foundation for human health and well-being
Human beings are an integral and inseparable part of the natural world. Our existence and healthÌýultimately depends on the integrity and functioning of ecosystems. This URBES factsheet presentsÌýresearch findings and policy recommendations which underline the value of biodiversity andÌýecosystem services in building and protecting physical and mental health. Within and aroundÌýcities, green infrastructure is the network of green spaces and other environmental features, whichÌýsustains biodiversity and brings benefits to human health and well-being.Ìý
Trees, parks, gardens, ponds, and other natural areas are the green infrastructure of cities and towns. ThisÌýinfrastructure hosts and protects biodiversity and is the source of much needed ecosystem services. TheÌýfollowing selection of research findings shows how urban ecosystems can significantly contribute to improvedÌýhuman health and well-being.
The importance of biodiversity and ecosystems for human health needs to be recognized when developingÌýurban policies. Informed urban planning has the potential to support physical, mental and social well-being. ItÌýcan also contribute to decreasing health inequalities and improving the health conditions of urban citizens byÌýconserving nature.Ìý
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