Parks can cool neighbourhoods and cut pollution hundreds of metres beyond their boundaries, study finds

New research led by the University of Surrey's Global Centre for Clean Air Research (GCARE) has highlighted the important role urban parks can play in creating healthier and more climate-resilient cities.

Published in City and Environment Interactions, the study used high-frequency environmental monitoring in and around Stoke Park, Guildford, to assess the effects of urban green spaces on temperature, air pollution and noise. Researchers found that PM10 concentrations were more than 11% lower inside the park during the morning, while temperatures were 6.5% cooler than in surrounding built-up areas. The cooling effect extended up to 300 metres beyond the park boundary, and noise levels were reduced by more than 5 dB. Tree-covered and grassland areas also improved thermal comfort, reducing perceived heat by up to 8.5°C.

The findings provide strong evidence that urban parks deliver measurable environmental and public health benefits, supporting nature-based solutions for climate adaptation and sustainable urban planning. The research aligns closely with GREENIN's mission to advance innovative greening strategies that improve environmental quality, health and wellbeing.

Read more, click here.