Marcus Butler
2 June 2017: Safer streets, more play spaces and greater opportunities for physical activity are key to improving the health and wellbeing of local children according to a new report by researchers from the University of Canberra.
The Shaping spaces for Gen Z –International Forum Report outlines how Canberra can help address childhood obesity, chronic disease and mental health, among other issues.
The report produced by the University’s Health Research Institute (UC-HRI) follows theShaping Spaces for Gen Z forum, which was co-hosted by the University and the Urban Synergies Group earlier this year.
UC-HRI’s Professor of Public Health Tom Cochrane said improving the health and wellbeing of children was a shared responsibility among the entire community.
“We’d like Canberra to lead the way in addressing issues like childhood obesity, chronic disease, mental health, social inclusion and positive development, and better planning is the foundation stone to build a healthier community,” Professor Cochrane said.
“The priorities as we see them are safe access with well-designed walking, cycling and mixed-mode transport routes around schools; play infrastructure for all ages and abilities; and environmental movement and play in all schools.
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UC research presented to the United Nations Habitat committee recommends changes to urban planning including well-designed walking, cycling and mixed-mode transport routes around schools to help improve kids health and well being. Photo: Stock
“If we can shape the places where we live to encourage better lifestyle choices then we can help ensure a healthier future for our communities.
“Children have the right to the best opportunities we can provide for their social, psychological and physical development, and Canberra is a city which has potential for every child to achieve this,” he said.
The recommendations call for increased observation around travel routes to and from local schools and seeking residents’ feedback on safety in their area. The report also suggests monitoring how many students are using active transport options and gauging whether kids’ activity levels are regarded as a high priority in communities.
The report and recommendations produced following the forum are being presented at the 26th UN-Habitat Governing Council Meeting in Nairobi, Kenya, this week. The report has also been provided to the ACT government.
Gregor Mews, founder and director of Urban Synergies Group, an international ‘think and do’ tank, hopes the report will inform policies locally, nationally and internationally, to make health, children and sustainability central to our communities.
“Engaging with local thinkers and creating these priority areas sets out a road map for meaningful action towards better sustainable urban development,” Mr Mews said.
“They really are the most vulnerable people in our community and if we can get the environment right for them, we will achieve better outcomes for all.”
The original forum, held on 8 March, brought together 120 delegates from 39 different organisations with expertise ranging from health and urban planning to sustainability and children.
A copy of the published report is available for download and the online reporting component is available via the UN-Habitat’s World Urban Campaign website.
