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Transforming public space to promote health in cities


Discover this strategic intelligence note to learn more about the role of urban stakeholders and their contributions to improve public health.

  • "Improving the health of citizens is above all improving health in the public space."
  • 4 areas on which land use planners can have an impact on health: physical activity, mental health, diet, pollution.
     

How to transform public spaces to promote health in cities

The strategic intelligence note "How to Transform Public Spaces to Promote Health in Cities" explores the challenges related to urban health and proposes innovative solutions to improve the well-being of city dwellers. Urban health is influenced by factors such as air pollution, lack of physical activity, unequal access to healthy food, etc. These challenges are exacerbated by rapid urbanization, densification of spaces, and modern lifestyles. Urban health is a major issue for residents and the quality of life in urban areas.  

Collective engagement for healthier cities

Urban health requires collective engagement from cities, planners, and citizens. Tools like the ISadOrA guide and Health Impact Assessment (HIA) help integrate health into urban planning projects. In France, nighty-nine “Healthy Cities” are already working to improve the health of their residents. These initiatives show that solutions exist to make cities healthier and more livable.

Integrated solutions for improving urban health

To address these challenges, solutions are being implemented. Initiatives such as Low Emission Zones (LEZs) aim to reduce air pollution by restricting the circulation of polluting vehicles. Health-Promoting Urban Planning encourages physical activity, mental health, and access to healthy food. Cities like Nantes and Saint-Dizier are experimenting with "active design" to transform urban furniture into sports equipment.
 

Extract of the note:

Extract of the note: Transforming public space to promote health in cities

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