This commentary, in addition to presenting information about how inequitable access to green space can relate to health disparities, highlights a number of initiatives addressing these concerns. While the initiatives described all focus on the promotion of health equity in the United States, the form they take vary considerably. This is evident by the range of projects discussed in this paper: (1) green space and affordable housing, (2) youth engagement and urban greening, (3) local green space and job creation, (4) green space and neighborhood walkability, and (5) urban gardens and access to healthy food.
The traditional approach to reducing health disparities focused on improving access to medical care. Today, with an increased understanding that various forms of inequality (including those relating to race, class, and political power) influence disparities in health outcomes, efforts to reduce health disparities are much broader. These broader initiatives are based on the premise that a major factor in achieving health equity is valuing everyone equally and recognizing that a societal-level approach is needed to address all forms of inequalities and injustices, as well as the disparities in health and health care.
Natural Leaders, a part of the Children and Nature Network (C&NN), is provided as one example of a program working from this broader perspective. The Natural Leaders initiative focuses on the development of young leaders (age 18 - 29) who work to promote equitable access to green spaces in their communities. Natural Leaders projects have included the development of community gardens in low-income neighborhoods and providing more opportunities for youth in under-represented groups to participate in outdoor education and recreation programs.
In addition to providing a synopsis of other health equity initiatives in different phases of development, the authors also present characteristics supporting effectiveness and strategies for overcoming challenges. Links between factors involved in the relationship between green space and health equity are presented in the form of a conceptual model. The authors' hope in presenting this commentary is to promote an understanding of green space projects that support health equity and inform the dialogue on this topic in ways that advance research and advocacy.
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