97310 - Green and Health

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students will understand the connections between green spaces and health, encompassing both positive aspects and potential risks. They will be able to evaluate the impact of green spaces on human health through its various functions: ecological, environmental, health-related, and hygienic. Students will understand the role of urban planning and green space design in promoting and sustaining both individual and public health. Additionally, they will know how to integrate and implement tools for health monitoring and disease prevention through green spaces. Students will also learn to use territorial and green planning tools in the design and management of green areas across diverse settings.

Course contents

Concept of health: from early ideas to WHO and Alma Ata definitions

Public health and prevention

Green, resilient, and healthy cities: definition of green areas according to WHO, and their role in individual health

Benefits and risks of green areas: their impact on human, animal, and environmental health from a One Health perspective

Designing green areas: the physician’s perspective. Inclusivity and accessibility of green spaces, architectural barriers, and availability of green areas in modern cities

Examples of green areas in some European cities and their varying roles as tools for health prevention and promotion

“Sport and Wellness”: health promotion through green areas. Practical examples

Therapeutic green spaces

Readings/Bibliography

Epidemiology
by Kenneth J. Rothman (Author), G. Torre (Editor), S. Boccia (Editor), A. Mannocci (Editor)
Publisher: Idelson-Gnocchi (July 1, 2007)
Language: Italian
Paperback: 224 pages
ISBN-10: 8879474588

Teaching methods

The course will consist of lectures and in-class exercises, designed to provide a solid theoretical foundation and allow students to apply learned concepts to practical contexts. Lectures will cover fundamental knowledge, while exercises will offer moments for in-depth exploration and application, encouraging active learning and the development of practical skills directly related to course objectives.

Assessment methods

The final assessment will consist of an oral exam in which students will be required to demonstrate their understanding of the course content. Part of the exam will include a discussion of a practical case involving the analysis and planning of a master plan for an urban park, to assess students' skills in green space planning and management, with a particular focus on integrating theoretical and practical principles within the concept of "Green Spaces and Health."

Teaching tools

Lessons will use PowerPoint presentations to guide the explanation of theoretical and practical content, aiming to make the material easily accessible and engaging for students. Additionally, discussions on real case studies will be included to encourage critical thinking and the application of learned concepts to real-world situations, promoting interactive and participatory learning.

Office hours

See the website of Davide Gori