Two articles that will be of no surprise to many (aside perhaps from those looking to rip out the natural heart of Shanganagh Park):
1. Green Prescription: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/02/green-prescriptions-health-wellbeing/
“The World Health Organization (WHO) describes nature as “our greatest source of health and wellbeing” and says enhancing biodiversity is critical to recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Although the mental health benefits of getting out into the great outdoors have long been recognized, so-called green prescriptions are now being widely used to treat physical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and lung diseases.
Scientists say the health value of spending time in nature goes beyond the psychological.”
2. CSO study finds Covid lockdowns have reshaped public appreciation for nature, outdoors: https://www.irishtimes.com/health/2022/05/30/cso-outdoors-survey-pandemic-inspired-greater-love-for-nature/
A Central Statistics Office (CSO) study examining how the health emergency recast peoples’ relationship with the great outdoors found that while many developed a greater appreciation for outdoor life, a vast majority (more than 80 per cent) said there was insufficient green space and biodiversity in urban areas.
“During the Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions, many of us were forced to re-examine our relationship with the outdoors,” said CSO statistician Sylvie Clappe. “For some, time spent in the blue and green natural spaces surrounding our homes was essential to our physical and mental wellbeing".
Of those who spent time in natural spaces over the past six months, 97 per cent felt healthier and 93 per cent felt happier as a result. The study found that one in three people took up new outdoor activities.
Almost all respondents (98 per cent) liked to spend time outdoors with 87 per cent of those saying they used the time to get fresh air and 85 per cent simply to enjoy nature.
Love Shanganagh Park?
Please make sure you have the public meeting dates and times - 17 Jan at 1830 and 21 Jan at 1400 in Woodbrook College - in your diaries please as we need to get a clear message to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council that while the community and biodiversity needs outweigh the wants of a privileged few, there are more sustainable solutions available that support sport club ambitions without ripping out the beautiful heart of the park and replacing it with artificial surfaces, 7-storey pylons, chains, netting and more.
#SaveShanganaghPark
Sign: www.change.org/SaveShanganaghPark