Torontonians that live near trees might be healthier

A new study released today suggests there may be health benefits to living in areas with lots of trees - particularly streets lined with trees in the front yard. Published by researchers at the University of Chicago, the study is based on data provided by the City of Toronto.

While the study stops short of concluding the exact reasons for the health benefit of trees, it does insist there is a correlation and posits a number of reasons why neighbourhoods or streets with a lot of trees results in healthier residents.

Among the reasons cited are that trees improve urban air quality by pulling ozone and other pollutants from the air, that there are mental benefits (less stress) from being around greenery and that people may perceive themselves to be healthier when surrounded by green space.

It's all good news for Toronto's Urban Forestry Operations which has been busy protecting and maintaining the trees within city limits.

What do you think of the study? Let us know in the comments.

Photo by Kaeko in the blogTO Flickr pool.