Linkages among socio-economic status, green space accessibility, and health outcomes: An environmental justice perspective in Australia

Abstract

Green space accessibility is a crucial environmental justice issue, which is influenced by socio-economic factors and may lead to disparate health outcomes among individuals. While numerous scholars have examined the association between green space accessibility and socio-economic status or health separately, research on the pathways linking these three dimensions remains relatively sparse. Using Statistical Area Level 1 (SA1) data from eight Australian capital cities, this study explores the pathways from socio-economic status to green space accessibility and subsequently to diverse health outcomes. The findings indicate the limited green space accessibility in some socio-economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, particularly among ethnic minorities and in larger cities. Additionally, a significant association is observed between increased green space accessibility and reduced chronic diseases in the national capital and major global cities. Regarding spatial proximity, the study suggests that green spaces do not need to be immediately adjacent to residential areas but can be planned within reasonable walking distances to confer significant health benefits. These findings can inform the development of equitable green space planning policies and contribute to improved human health.