Exposure to urban greenery results in improved mental health for women, although they are less likely to use these green spaces for reasons mostly related to security. This is one of the main findings of a study by the Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology of the Autonomous University of Barcelona, ​​which analyzes the relationship between mental health and exposure to urban greenery, with a deeper look at differences in outcomes by sex and gender.

A study recently published in the scientific journal Health and Place found that the impact of urban greenery on mental health is unevenly distributed among women compared to men.

In particular, the results suggest that women benefit more from contact with green spaces for walking and recreation, but use them less than men. This may be due to women's safety concerns in such urban areas, as well as gender norms and social roles.

The research team is urging park planners and designers to carefully plan new green spaces with input from residents, especially children.