The relationship between urban environments and human health has been investigated at different stages in the history of cities and by different disciplines (geography, town planning, epidemiology, health engineering, etc.), given that the spatial organisation of the city directly or indirectly influences the health status and well-being of urban citizens. Now, climate change negatively affects the health of individuals and communities by intensifying unfavourable conditions in urban areas (e.g. heat waves and the urban heat island phenomenon, urban flooding, ozone exposure). Against this, urban green areas are referred to as a key factor for harnessing the co-benefits of both climate adaptation and human well-being. Green spaces are composed of a complex taxonomy including agricultural areas, great metropolitan parks, small neighbourhood parks, tree-lined streets, etc. Each type of green area offers a variety of uses and affects human health in different ways (by producing healthy food, mitigating temperatures, reducing pollution, etc.). In general, green areas in urban environments can be considered as “therapeutic” places, as they play significant role in reducing negative conditions and improving the physical and mental well-being of individuals.

Against these new developments, this conference session seeks to continue the debate regarding the direct or indirect connection between green areas and human health. We seek to foster an interdisciplinary dialogue (geography, urban studies, health and medical studies, etc.) in order to better integrate policies for green areas and those for human health, properly considering the characterisation of spaces and resident populations (with respect to their attitudes and practices), including the role of policy-makers, stakeholders, associations and individual citizens.

The session organizers welcome contributions focusing on: