Finland is expanding a program that rewilds daycare yards to increase children's exposure to natural microbes, which has been shown to improve immune health and reduce disease risk, based on a 2021 study and ongoing nationwide research.
Living near green spaces may increase life expectancy by an average of 2.5 years, according to a study published in Science Advances. The research examined the impact of long-term exposure to greenery on biological aging among over 900 participants in four US cities. The study found that proximity to green spaces caused molecular changes in the blood that can affect aging. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating nature into daily life and viewing green spaces as essential infrastructure for human health. However, further research is needed to understand the specific benefits of different types and qualities of green spaces.