Climate, greenspace, and community health: A discussion of decision-relevant knowledge and priorities

As U.S. Environmental Protection Agency launches research to advance topics at the intersection of community, climate, health, and nature, we are inviting local decision-makers, city planners, community leaders, NGOs, academics, and private sector experts that are attending the conference to exchange ideas in small, interactive discussions during a 90 minute working group session to answer: What existing networks of communities, researchers, and practitioners should be partners in this work to ensure inclusion of informed, relevant, and diverse perspectives? What modes of engagement will prove successful to understand partner needs and priorities?  What important knowledge or communication gaps exist in this area that could be addressed by new evidence syntheses, data analyses, and user-centered, actionable outreach products? 

Impact/Purpose

The purpose of this poster is to inform the scope of future assessments about nature-based solutions and human health. The work to date has involved gathering literature on various types of nature-based solutions and interventions, health endpoints, vulnerable populations, study type and location, etc. In order to move forward with synthesis and addressing research gaps, we aim to engage with interested partners through this poster to gather information on assessment priorities. Long-term, these findings will support and inform local communities, the general public, and program or regional partners on the health benefits and burdens associated with specific types of nature-based solutions and green infrastructure.

Citation

Olson, N., Annie Matsler, L. Moorhead, R. Panko, J. Penry, AND C. Ridley. Climate, greenspace, and community health: A discussion of decision-relevant knowledge and priorities. National Adaptation Forum 2024, St. Paul, MN, May 14 - 16, 2024.