Europe UK (Commonwealth Union) – The numerous benefits of a garden have often been acknowledged by both garden owners and scientists. Many people refuse to rent or buy a property that does not have sufficient garden space.
A new UK study has found that homeowners that have a sustainable garden, which plays a role in blocking the destructive effects of climate change in cities while enhancing a healthier urban landscape should be rewarded.
The study conducted by the University of Sheffield, urged policymakers to provide incentives, like council tax or water bill discounts, that incentivize gardeners to apply environmentally sensitive methods to assist in combating climate change in cities and enhance communities’ health and wellbeing.
The recent study, by Professor Ross Cameron that appeared in Urban Forestry and Urban Greening, has emphasized that, as gardens become more significant in the war against the extreme effects of climate change, financial motivation should be taken into account to guarantee gardens are well stocked with plants.
Professor Cameron further indicated that gardens are part of a 3rd of all our urban areas and are significant spaces for making sure our buildings and city atmosphere remain cool in summer, taking in rain to prevent flash flooding and giving a vital refuge for wildlife.
“Gardens need to be green and full of plants to be beneficial to the local environment, and some types of garden are more beneficial than others.”
“The paradox is that many gardens are not actually green and some trends in garden design can be very damaging for the urban environment. We have paved them over to house the car, or provide sterile patio space; factors that increase urban temperatures and increase flooding risk.”
The researchers call for policy-makers to enhance more sustainable garden management as well as assisting foster gardening activities that assist us meet vital atmospheric and sustainability targets.
