Supporting tree-planting initiatives could relieve pressure on the NHS

Doctors call for immediate action to prioritise the environment and tree-planting initiatives due to its crucial role in improving public health and helping the strain on the National Health Service (NHS)

The Woodland Trust found a 96% consensus among General Practitioners (GPs) for governmental intervention to combat health risks from climate change and extreme weather events.

Planting more trees for improved health

A survey of 255 doctors from various medical practices across the nation revealed that 70% of doctors want to prescribe nature-based interventions to safeguard the health of forthcoming generations.

Furthermore, 77% of surveyed GPs emphasised the potential of increased tree coverage in mitigating the financial burdens on the NHS. Investing in tree-planting initiatives, particularly around urban schools, could play a pivotal role in combating respiratory ailments such as asthma, with 94% advocating for this approach.

Environmental improvements: Tree-planting initiatives

There has also been a rise in patients with climate anxiety, reported by nearly half (45%) of the participating doctors, this signals a growing concern within the healthcare community regarding the health implications of environmental degradation. Doctors claim that environmental improvement must be integrated into health policies to ensure the well-being of future generations.

Dr. Darren Moorcroft, Chief Executive of the Woodland Trust, emphasised this urgency, mentioning the overwhelming support from frontline healthcare professionals. “Policymakers must take heed of these results. A startling 96% of GPs – who are on the frontline of healthcare in this country – want environmental issues moved up the political agenda.”

Trish Goodwin, a Link Worker for Bolton GP Federation, emphasised the critical role of nature in relieving pressure on healthcare services. Goodwin highlighted the positive impact of tree-planting initiatives on physical and mental health, emphasising the need for equitable access to green spaces, particularly in urban areas with high pollution levels.

“This poll clearly shows how GPs value the important role of nature and the environment in helping to reduce the pressure on their services and the NHS in general; with the changing climate, we believe it should be a priority.”

Public health is deteriorating due to climate change.

The consequences of climate change, including more frequent and severe weather events, pose significant challenges to public health, with heatwaves claiming thousands of lives annually.

Trees are capable of reducing ground temperatures by up to 12 degrees Celsius. Doubling urban tree cover from 15% to 30%, through tree-planting initiatives, could generate substantial temperature reductions.

The Woodland Trust tree equity app

The Woodland Trust has launched a climate campaign urging individuals to support tree-planting initiatives.

The Woodland Trust has also developed a tree equity app in collaboration with American Forests, aiming to target tree planting efforts in areas with inadequate tree coverage. This strategic approach aims to address health outcomes associated with varying levels of tree cover.