The Economic and Mental Benefits of Urban Trees and Green Spaces

The economic benefits of trees and green spaces

Cooling: As we have experienced in recent years with increasing frequency and in almost every season, average temperatures continue to rise. Meanwhile, green spaces are capable of reducing this effect, because as is well known, trees can cool their surroundings through evapotranspiration. For example, a mature oak tree can absorb and evaporate 400 liters of water daily, exerting an intensive cooling effect. Thanks to this, buildings need to spend less on air conditioning.

Flash floods: Urban blue-green infrastructure, such as rain gardens, green roofs, infiltration ditches, and retention ponds, not only play an important role in mitigating heat, but also help prevent flash floods by retaining precipitation and dampening runoff. During heavy downpours or severe storms, it is crucial that water does not all flow down at once from paved surfaces, as this can lead to sewer network overload and flash flooding, which is becoming an increasingly common problem in Budapest as well.

The psychological benefits of trees and green spaces

Urban green spaces have positive effects not only from an economic perspective, but according to a summary report by the World Health Organization, they also positively influence the physical and mental health of city dwellers. For example, they reduce stress, noise, and heat, as well as mortality caused by respiratory, cardiovascular, and circulatory diseases, improve air quality, and provide excellent spaces for social interaction. Just think of picnics on Margit Island or stolen kisses in the city's hidden gardens.

Mental health is particularly important among city dwellers because numerous studies have already shown that in addition to loneliness, isolation, and stress, city dwellers face approximately 40% higher risk of depression and 20% more anxiety than those living in rural areas.

Beyond social connections, trees and green spaces also provide excellent opportunities for sports and recreation. Research has shown that proximity to urban green spaces not only increases the likelihood of physical activity but also its frequency. In line with this, it has also been established that when more green spaces are available, city dwellers can be encouraged toward a more active lifestyle.

A healthier society has significantly lower healthcare costs, so green spaces contribute indirectly to the economic sustainability of cities on this point as well.