The importance of urban blue spaces
Blue spaces, which can be either natural or artificial bodies of water, have been neglected for a long time despite providing multiple benefits for people and nature. However, as we experience climate and nature emergencies, we simply can’t afford to overlook our rivers, waterways, and canals any longer. They are important allies in helping us to cope with high temperatures and increasingly more frequent extreme weather events.
Sewage pollution, plastic litter, road run-off pollution, and channelisation are some examples of issues affecting urban blue spaces. These impact not only their ecological health and biodiversity but also their potential as important recreational grounds for communities, their contribution to our well-being, and even their economic value, to name a few.
Built-in urban environments can take a toll on people’s physical and mental health. Air pollution, heat, lack of easily accessible natural spaces, violence, and overcrowding are common factors which affect those who live in big cities. Many studies have shown that blue and green spaces are seen as restorative and relaxing areas, providing an antidote to stress and anxiety, and helping improve people’s well-being, mood, and overall health. They also state that living closer to and having more access to blue spaces within neighbourhoods can significantly increase people’s physical activity levels as these naturally encourage recreational activities and sports such as walking, swimming, and kayaking.
As attractive and pleasant outdoor spaces, rivers, canals, ponds, and lakes act as places of gathering, fostering community connections and relationships. People from diverse backgrounds come together to enjoy the outdoors, relax, and socialise. These inclusive areas promote a sense of belonging and strengthen community bonds.
Blue spaces bring real economic benefits to local areas. Looked-after blue features usually increase property value as appealing and sought-after areas. They also attract visitors and tourists looking to be close to nature, relax, and participate in leisure activities, helping to boost local and independent businesses.
From an environmental perspective, their importance is also huge. Freshwater ecosystems are home to at least 10% of Earth’s species and, unfortunately, are also among the most threatened ones. They provide diverse habitats for wildlife and support biodiversity. Blue and green spaces in urban environments provide a much-needed refuge for wildlife in a grey landscape. They also improve air and water quality by filtering out pollutants and also help balance temperatures through evaporative cooling. Last but not least, they’re vital to building climate resilience as they help control water levels and prevent floods by making space, absorbing, and storing water.
Blue spaces bring many vital benefits to people and wildlife. It’s in our hands to care for, protect, and restore them. Every small action matters. Volunteer for a river clean-up, become a citizen scientist, donate to environmental charities, and join events – these are a few examples of what we can do as individuals while pushing for sustainable policies and demanding action from governments and companies.
Did you hear that London Rivers Week 2024 is just around the corner? Join us from the 22nd to the 30th of June to celebrate London’s rivers. This year’s theme is health, well-being, and culture. There will be many free activities across London: webinars, clean-ups, river restoration activities, and walks. Come learn more and explore your local blue space with us!