A cross-sectional analysis of biodiversity, publicly accessible green space and mental well-being in Wales using routinely collected data

Abstract

There is a lack of studies investigating the effects of green space and biodiversity on mental well-being, across a large study area. Generally, exposure to natural environments promotes better physical health, mental health and well-being. This study investigated associations between publicly accessible green space, biodiversity and mental well-being for individuals living in Wales using routinely collected survey and biodiversity data. This study used the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS) to measure mental well-being. The 2018–19 National Survey for Wales responses containing the WEMWBS scores and socio-demographic factors were linked to green space and biodiversity data in census areas. By utilising Generalised Additive Models this study found that all environmental metrics were associated with mental well-being. However, after adjustment for socio-demographic factors, only bird species richness remained associated with mental well-being, with a highly non-linear relationship. There was little to no evidence of associations between green space or biodiversity when stratifying by income group. When stratified by rural and urban areas, we found bird, plant and total species richness to be associated with mental well-being. Environmental interventions should consider promoting bird species richness in urban areas which may benefit mental well-being. Future areas of research could include longitudinal studies to explore causal links between green spaces, biodiversity and mental well-being, utilising individual-level exposure.