Are local authority green infrastructure strategies in England addressing climate and environmental risks to public health? A policy review

Evidence suggests greenspaces can improve mental and physical health and wellbeing, as well as support environmental adaptation and mitigation goals which benefits health. This study aimed to review published local authority (LA) green infrastructure strategies (GISS) in England, to assess to what extent these strategies address climate change and environmental risks to health. A content analysis of 151 publicly available LA GISS in England published between 2012 - 2024 was conducted, sourced from OHID regional teams. Data was extracted on the following categories: health policy, health outcomes, population groups and inequalities, environmental and climate risks to health, monitoring and evaluation and wider determinants of health. Strategies were scored against a thematic framework. Most GISS reviewed recognised the importance of supporting the natural environment to reduce impacts of climate change and environmental hazards, although few acknowledged the benefits to health from managing these risks. Managing flood risks (80 %) and air quality control (66 %) were the most common added benefits identified from local green infrastructure. However, a majority of the LAs did not have a strategy. Strengthening of GISS presents an opportunity for aligning local and national environmental, climate change and health policy. Further collaboration between public health, environment and planning departments in developing comprehensive GISSs will support addressing local climate and health needs.