Key government priorities for health are outlined with suggestions of how organisations such as the Forestry Commission and other countryside agencies can help people to choose healthier lifestyles. The evidence base is established through a review of past and current research describing the ways in which the natural environment can improve people’s health and well-being. Also provided are case studies of some of the projects the Forestry Commission is currently running in partnership with a range of other organisations including primary care trusts. They illustrate important lessons about how the Woodland Sector, in partnership with others, can contribute to the health agenda and where it can target its efforts most effectively. This publication demonstrates that while there are many well-being benefits that can be experienced from having contact with nature and green space in general, trees and woodlands specifically have a number of advantages as places with particular meaning and spaces where a range of activities and events can take place.

Type of Case
Printed publication (book, sourcebook, journal article…)

Publisher
Forest Research

Region
Europe

Biome
Boreal, Temperate

Forest Type
All forest types (natural and planted)

Primary Designated Function
Multiple use