Little Shop of Horrors had it right: your life will improve if you go somewhere that’s green.
According to a study published in Environmental Science and Technology, moving to a greener neighbourhood can bring about immediate mental health benefits. The multi-year study, which involved over a thousand people, tracked participants who moved to a greener area, and participants who moved to a less green area. On average, those who moved to a greener neighbourhood saw an immediate improvement in mental health, which was sustained for at least three years after the move. Conversely, people who moved to a less green area suffered a drop in mental health—which occurred before they moved.
So, if you’re moving, perhaps take this into account: a nearby park can pay off in a big way.
