Residential exposure to trees has been associated with reduced mortality risks. We hypothesise that in addition to tree canopy cover, tree canopy configuration also plays a role in exposure–mortality relationships. As there is limited evidence on this hypothesis, especially longitudinal evidence, we performed a nationwide study to investigate the residential tree canopy configuration–mortality associations in the Swiss population.
In conclusion, this observational study unveils that in addition to the mere presence of tree canopies, their spatial configuration seems to modify the risk of natural-cause mortality and several common causes of death. The magnitude of the associations might vary depending on tree canopy cover, air quality and temperature, and urbanisation level. Our findings suggest that high levels of aggregation, minimal fragmentation, and simpler shapes should be a priority in health-oriented forested greenspaces. Interventions targeting the combined optimisation of these aspects of configuration, such as reconnecting isolated forest fragments, could yield greater health benefits. Findings from this study should be of interest to policy makers and designers of urban greenspaces.
Lees het volledige artikel op de site van de Lancet.
Bron: Nieuwsredactie: ‘Residential tree canopy configuration and mortality in 6 million Swiss adults: a longitudinal study’, thelancet.com, maart 2025.
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