THE POSITIVE BENEFITS OF BLUE SPACE

Urban congestion has community leaders realising that integrating nature into cities is an effective strategy to improve wellness and mental health.

Doctors around the world now administer “green prescriptions” where patients are encouraged to spend time in local green spaces to benefit psychological well-being and increase social engagement.

But what about “blue spaces” – water settings such as a lake, a creek, riverside trails, wetlands, and a waterfront? Can they deliver the same wide-ranging benefits that urban green infrastructure brings?

Studies show that water bodies score just as well – if not better – in supporting psychological wellbeing.

A survey of people using Sir Douglas Mawson Lake undertaken by Dr Morgan Schebella from UniSA in 2020 reveals that people value the lake for exercising, relaxing and socialising. Dr Schebella’s data shows that the lake and surrounds has a high level of public use daily particularly with adults ranging in age from 18 to 64. “My data indicates that respondents value spending time outdoors, improving fitness, soaking in the tranquility and observing the wildlife. The lake offers a gentle place to escape stress and observe nature. Others like to picnic and enjoy outdoor dining,” she said.

Health benefits from blue spaces arise through a number of pathways. One is that water has the ability to reduce heat stress in a hot climate. Water can help dampen traffic noise thereby lessen the stress caused by a loud cityscape. Researchers also report a direct effect on stress regulation, by inducing calm.

Urban planners and councils are investigating Blue Designs in innovative ways. They see the water-centric-city as a key strategy in adapting to climate change and in managing water resources in sustainable and resilient ways. By including a wide range of interactive and passive water features, a blue design can help manage stormwater and reduce our urban heat islands. All of which are critical factors in urban lifestyles.

In Northern Adelaide there are many blue spaces, so look out for them and consider these benefits. THINK BLUE. ED

For a full copy of Dr Schebella’s report contact her via email at morgan.schebella@unisa.edu.au