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New research led by the University of Exeter’s European Centre for Environment and Human Health reveals that residing on greener streets or having views of blue spaces from one’s home can lead to longer and better-quality sleep. This groundbreaking study, spanning 18 countries, sheds light on the profound impact of natural environments on sleep health, offering insights that could inform urban planning and public health policies.
Published in the journal Sleep, the study marks the first comprehensive analysis of various types of natural environments and their correlation with sleep patterns across different countries. Dr. Leanne Martin, lead author of the study, emphasized the significance of this research in addressing the pervasive issue of inadequate sleep, which affects approximately 16 percent of adults in the UK alone.
“People living on greener streets reported better mental health, which was a key factor contributing to improved sleep quality,” explained Dr. Martin. “This underscores the importance of incorporating greenery into residential areas to support public health and promote healthier sleep habits.”
Drawing data from over 16,000 individuals across 18 countries, including 14 European nations, Australia, Canada, USA, and Hong Kong, researchers examined participants’ access to green spaces, views of blue spaces from their homes, leisure time spent in natural environments, mental health status, and sleep duration.
The findings revealed a strong association between exposure to green and blue spaces and better mental health, which, in turn, correlated with healthier sleep durations. Specifically, individuals residing on greener streets or with views of blue spaces reported better mental well-being and longer sleep durations compared to those without such access.
Dr. Mathew White, co-author of the study from the University of Vienna, highlighted the significance of these findings, likening the impact of street greenness on sleep to that of financial strain. “This underscores the importance of recognizing street greenness as a crucial public health issue,” Dr. White emphasized.
The research underscores the potential of incorporating nature-based interventions into urban planning initiatives to promote healthier sleep habits and enhance overall well-being. With funding primarily from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme, the study offers valuable insights that could inform policymakers and urban planners in their efforts to create healthier and more sustainable living environments.
