Biodiversity and urban green spaces linked to public health in Spain

Public spaces and biodiversity are increasingly being recognized as essential components of public health and urban well-being in Spain. At the ‘Nature and Health’ event held in Granada during the XXVII Spanish Ornithology Congress, experts discussed the link between biodiverse ecosystems and human health. Speakers emphasized that protecting bird habitats and natural environments serves as a form of public health infrastructure, reducing disease risks and improving mental and physical resilience.

Mònica Ubalde of ISGlobal noted that approximately 80% of human health depends on the environment, suggesting that urban planning and local policies are critical to health outcomes. Similarly, researchers from CSIC argued that biodiversity and environmental health must be addressed together.

In practical urban applications, municipalities are enhancing green spaces to foster community engagement and conservation. In Cádiz, seasonal plantings in Plaza de España and Parque Genovés aim to maintain urban attractiveness. Other efforts include implementing automated irrigation systems and new plantings in Plaza de Europa to improve urban environments while managing water consumption efficiently.