Photo: Beth Macdonald | Unsplash
Green spaces in cities correlate to social, ecological, and economic benefits, research from countries like Australia, China, Finland, India, US, and now South Africa, suggest. Beyond aesthetics, green urban spaces improve air quality, regulate storm water, counteract urban heat, create jobs, and support physical and mental health. South Africa has one of the highest crime rates in the world. A recent study from Pretoria, South Africa's Institute of Security Studies found that the increase of greener areas in South Africa between 2010-2019 correlates with lower rates of violent and property crimes. The findings support prior U.S. studies that similarly conclude the presence of green space in urban environments can potentially reduce the frequency of violent crimes.
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