Barcelona Bets on Green Spaces

Barcelona Green Spaces is embracing green initiatives not only to combat climate change, reduce emissions, and tackle air pollution but also to enhance residents’ mental health. A pilot scheme in three neighborhoods has demonstrated promising results.

Superilla Project: A Greener, Quieter Barcelona

Starting in 2013, the Superilla (Superblocks) project transformed the neighborhoods of Poblenou, Horta, and Sant Antoni. These areas, largely closed to through traffic, became greener and quieter, encouraging socialization and play. Residents in these neighborhoods reported better rest, increased socialization, and reduced noise and air pollution, making their surroundings more comfortable and safer.

Expanding Green Spaces: Eixos Verds (Green Axis)

Building on this success, the ambitious Eixos Verds (Green Axis) proposal aims to extend this concept across much of Barcelona. The plan is to create a network of quieter, greener streets, facilitating safer travel by foot or bike. Streets will feature trees, play parks, cycle lanes, benches, and community squares, replacing bumper-to-bumper traffic.

Benefits of the Green Axis Project

The Green Axis project offers numerous benefits:

• Climate Adaptation: Cooler green spaces help absorb carbon dioxide.
• Improved Air Quality: Reduced traffic exhaust fumes and active mobility improve overall health.
• Enhanced Mental Health: Lower noise and air pollution, increased safety, and better social integration reduce feelings of isolation.

Scientific Backing

A study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health published in Environment International found that if fully implemented, the Green Axis project could prevent 14% of self-perceived poor mental health, reduce visits to mental health specialists by 13%, and decrease antidepressant and sedative use by 13% and 8%, respectively.

Research consistently shows that access to nature helps prevent mental health disorders. Noise pollution is linked to stress, anxiety, and depression, while poor air quality is associated with dementia and strokes. Studies from the Netherlands and China further support that green spaces can reduce antidepressant prescriptions and protect against depression.

Global Recognition

The World Health Organization recommends at least 500 square meters of green space within a five-minute walk of every home. However, only 20% of Barcelona’s residents have such access, compared to the 40% European average. Barcelona’s rapid transformation has garnered global praise, with city leaders acknowledging its impact on urban planning worldwide.

Janette Sadik-Khan, former commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation, highlighted Barcelona’s achievements, noting their influence on a global movement for greener cities.

Conclusion

Barcelona’s bold initiatives to expand green spaces are set to improve not only environmental quality but also the mental health of its residents. The city’s comprehensive approach through projects like Superilla and Green Axis demonstrates a model for urban renewal, integrating health, safety, and sustainability.