An architect and lecturer in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at the Osun State University, Osogbo, Dr Ayodeji Ajayi, has highlighted the critical role of outdoor environments in promoting healthy living.
At a recent business meeting of Osun State architects held at the Ministry of Lands and Urban Development’s conference room, Ajayi in his presentation on the health benefits of access to green spaces, explained how outdoor recreation, physical activity, and pro-environmental behaviours contribute to well-being, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3).
The SDG focuses on good health and well-being.
His extensive research indicated that urban open spaces and community outdoor areas enhance physical and mental health, reduce obesity and coronary heart disease, and increase physical activity levels.
Ajayi called for closer collaboration among health promotion practitioners, architects, urban planners, policymakers, and researchers.
He stressed the need for integrated transport, land use, and neighbourhood planning to create healthy urban environments, thereby contributing to SDG 3. His appeal aims to foster collective efforts in designing urban spaces that support the health and well-being of all residents.
Presenting findings from his doctoral research, Ajayi identified school playgrounds, incidental open spaces, pocket parks, and neighbourhood parks as significant types of open spaces in the Osogbo metropolis. He noted that residents primarily engaged in sedentary activities in these areas, with usage patterns varying by gender, age, and income.
Ajayi highlighted that residential open spaces are particularly beneficial for physical health, promoting stress reduction and physical exercise more effectively than neighbourhood open spaces.
Emphasising the importance of the physical quality of open spaces, the lecturer also pointed out that safety and social support are crucial for their frequent use and effectiveness in promoting healthy behaviour.
He concluded by advocating for high-quality open spaces in residential areas to enhance residents’ health and encouraging urban residents to adopt active lifestyles to fully benefit from these spaces.
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