New 'library of greening' can help poorest urban communities the most, expert says

Surrey scientists are to establish a 'library of greening'—a new database enabling towns and cities to learn from each other's success developing green spaces, waterways and other sustainability initiatives.

The RECLAIM Network Plus provides a one-stop-shop for towns and cities looking to mitigate the impacts of climate change and improve their resilience. It has over 500 members worldwide, offering information and support to implement projects such as parks, green roofs, canals or wetlands.

Research already carried out across the Network suggests this greening can help the poorest urban communities the most.

As COP28 approaches, Professor Prashant Kumar, co-director of the Institute of Sustainability at Surrey University and principal investigator of the RECLAIM Network Plus, said, "Deprived urban communities are often forgotten when discussing the effects of climate change. Our research has repeatedly shown that using green spaces, urban design, and waterways can make those areas more resilient to climate change, improve mental health, tackle social problems, and reduce health inequalities.

The scientists will launch a new database that communities, policymakers and designers can access for inspiration, expand and exploit current research activities and deliver a further engagement event to bring more partners together and grow the network.

Professor Laurence Jones at the UK Center for Ecology & Hydrology, and co-lead of RECLAIM, said, "People will be able to search the database for information on how effective green or blue spaces are in tackling urban challenges like cooling during heat waves, air pollution, flooding, or how they can help improve physical and mental well-being."

Professor Alison Park, UKRI Creating Opportunities, Improving Outcomes Lead and Deputy Executive Chair, ESRC, said, "Their new 'greening library' will support the development of life enriching blue and green spaces in some of the most disadvantaged communities in the UK. In doing so it helps fulfill the ambition of our Creating Opportunities, Improving Outcomes theme to spread opportunities and reduce inequalities for people and places across the UK, with a focus on identifying solutions that promote economic and social prosperity."

Provided by University of Surrey