According to The World Health Organization being healthy is “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” How would you measure health? Does it involve having energy, following a healthy diet, and/ or family history of disease or illness? Many would agree that being physically and mentally healthy are key determinants of health. However, few would say that the built environment also influences health.
In reality, community design and the built environment affects several factors such as physical exercise, pollution, unintentional injuries, and crime. The CDC recognizes the following factors of the built environment related to health:
Eventually, these factors could lead to other issues such as higher rate of healthcare, decreased land value, et cetera.
Living in a community that fosters good health is important for society to easily lead healthy lifestyles. There are several benefits to living in a well built community from increased physical activity, social connection, and improved air quality. The most effective means to achieve a healthy community is through environmental building strategies according to the CDC are:
- Mixed land use and greater land density to shorten distances between home, work, school.
- Provide good mass transit.
- Build good pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure.
- Ensure affordable housing.
- Create community centers.
- Offer access to green space and parks.
While further research is needed to better understand the relationship between the built environment and public health, I think we could all agree that living in a well built community using, sustainable materials (that do not off gas), renewable energy, and clean public transportation is ultimately in our best interest. All of which can be achieved through smart growth planning and green building practices.
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