Understanding the Dynamics of Green and Blue Spaces for Health and Wellbeing Outcomes in Ireland: A Systemic Stakeholder Perspective

Gesche Kindermann, Christine Domegan, Easkey Britton, Caitriona Carlin, Mona Isazad Mashinchi and Adegboyega Ojo
Additional contact information
Gesche Kindermann: Whitaker Institute, JE Cairnes Building, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland
Christine Domegan: Whitaker Institute, JE Cairnes Building, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland
Easkey Britton: Whitaker Institute, JE Cairnes Building, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland
Caitriona Carlin: Whitaker Institute, JE Cairnes Building, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland
Mona Isazad Mashinchi: INSIGHT Centre for Data Analytics, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland
Adegboyega Ojo: School of Business, Maynooth University, W23 WK26 Maynooth, Ireland

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 17, 1-15

Abstract: Despite the recognised benefits to human health from green and blue spaces, socioeconomic inequalities in access to and use of such spaces have been observed. Using a multidisciplinary, multistakeholder systems approach and structural equation modelling, this paper examines the structural and behavioural dynamics of green and blue spaces, people and health and wellbeing outcomes. Systems thinking offers a deeper understanding of the dynamics of collective choices at all levels within the determinants and the circular causality of these processes. The resulting map shows that behavioural and structural dynamics of green and blue spaces reinforce social cohesion, mental and physical benefits and their circular causality. Acknowledging the importance of multiple uses of green and blue spaces, this paper concludes that delivering universal services at a scale and intensity proportionate to the degree of need is vital to ensure services and health and wellbeing benefits are available to all, not only the most advantaged.

Keywords: green and blue space; health and wellbeing; social inequalities; systems thinking (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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