For our communities
By looking at how communities access local services – are they walkable or cyclable, how their streets look, how their public spaces look, how the community is engaged in new developments or changes to their area, we can work to create innovative solutions to meet community challenges and build strong, equitable and sustainable communities through education, engagement and collaboration.
Where people live affects their health and chances of leading flourishing lives. Communities and neighbourhoods that ensure access to basic goods, that are socially cohesive, that are designed to promote good physical and psychological wellbeing, and that are protective of the natural environment are essential for health equity. (Closing the gap in a generation: health equity through action on the social determinants of health. World Health Organisation, 2008)
There is a need to understand the connections between health, land use planning/design and the environment.
To optimize human health and prevent chronic disease, we need healthy communities that:
1. Are safe, compact and walkable and cycle-friendly
2. Promote alternative transport
3. Have social gathering areas and green spaces easily accessible by foot, cycle, wheelchair, or buggy
4. Preserve natural surroundings and wildlife in the urban area
| People, Parklets, and Pavement to Parks (plus Mojo Bicycle Café) from Streetfilms on Vimeo. | StreetFilm have a great collection of videos which highlight the fantastic improvements that are brought about in cities around the world with some creative and innovative (and often inexpensive!) changes. |
