Society & Public Health
A healthy natural environment can have profound positive effects on society. Although the UFORE study did not specifically measure the social benefits of Delaware’s urban forest, research has consistently shown that cities with a reduced demand for social services are also the ones that have the most tree coverage. Some of the direct social benefits of trees cited in these studies include: reduced noise levels, reduced human stress levels, stronger neighborhood ties, aesthetic improvements, enhanced traffic calming measures, lower levels of violence, crime and aggression, and quicker hospital recoveries.
Crime rates decrease in areas with more greenery. Buildings with high levels of trees and landscaping have 52% fewer property and violent crimes than apartment buildings with little or no vegetation.
Research by scientists at the University of Illinois showed that residents living in greener surroundings report lower levels of fear, fewer incivilities and less violent behavior (Kuo and Sullivan, 2001b) Greener common areas facilitate stronger social ties by providing opportunities for people to interact and by promoting a greater sense of community. Those living close to green spaces enjoy more social activities, have more visitors, and know more of their neighbors by name.
Some people may be concerned that woods and underbrush create hiding places, allowing criminals to conceal illicit activity. However, research shows that inner city vegetation that is managed for visibility actually promotes safety. Widely spaced, high-canopy trees, flowers and low-growing shrubs do not shield crime or create the type of surroundings that promote fear.
Studies also show that trees have a role in calming traffic (reducing the speed and intensity of vehicles). Street trees near the road edge give the sensation of a narrower space, which encourages safer, slower driving speeds. They improve neighborhood environments by blocking winds, reducing dust and absorbing up to 50% of noise (ICLEI, 2006). Trees can screen views of harsh urban landscapes and herald seasonal changes in the city.
Children benefit from being around trees. Research has shown that children who have a view of greenery in their lives perform better in school (Taylor, et al, 2002). Increased exposure to nature enhances their ability to follow directions and relieves the symptoms of attention deficit disorder (AD/HD), resulting in better concentration (Kuo and Taylor, 2004).
Trees and green space improve public health. Shade from trees reduces exposure to ultraviolet light, lowering the risk of skin cancer and cataracts. Hospital patients with a view of trees need less medication and have faster recovery times following surgery (Ulrich, 1984). People with views of nature from their desks report 23% fewer instances of illness (Home Depot Foundation, 2007). Employees who can see trees from their workspace are measurably less frustrated, more patient, have greater enthusiasm for their job, better health, and report an overall higher life satisfaction than those without views of nature.
Aesthetic value of Wilmington’s trees
Trees also have a measurable aesthetic value based on tangible and intangible increases to property values. A methodology developed by the U.S. Forest Service (STRATUM) shows that each street tree and park tree in Wilmington has an average aesthetic value of $37, resulting in $509,975 added to property values in the city. The analysis also calculates total net benefits by adding the values of energy savings, carbon dioxide removal, air quality improvements, stormwater mitigation and aesthetics, and subtracting the costs associated with tree maintenance. Total net benefits received from Wilmington’s public trees each year are worth $679,820.
