A study by Huaquing Wang, a Ph.D. Urban and Regional Sciences student and Lou Tassinary, Professor of Visualization of the Texas A+M University has been published by the Lancet Planetary Health.

They investigated the associations of greenspace morphology-related metrics in predicting mortality at local community level as nearly all studies investigating the effects of natural environments on human health are focused on the amount of a community’s green space

They found that the shape or form of green space has an important role in this association as it highlights how humans and nature interact in cities. 

We believe that particular spatial morphologies increase the likelihood of routine exposure to greenspace and, thereby, positively affect health outcomes... This association might be attributable to the increased number of access points provided by complex-shaped green spaces.

Increased complexity of greenspace shape, connected and clustered greenspaces seem to decrease the risk of deaths from heart disease, chronic lower respiratory disease, and cancers.

Landscape and city planning specialists strive to create healthy and sustainable urban environments, relying heavily on spatial maps to model land-use alternatives. This research gives professionals the opportunity to develop practical solutions to create healthier living urban environments.