Projects
Spending time in nature is good for our health. My research projects measure the impact of nature on people's health, and help build the case for more natural spaces in urban areas.
Tree Planting for Health in Allentown PA
The City of Allentown has plans to plant 600 trees by the end of 2027. This project will help answer the following questions:
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Where are the best locations to plant trees to maximize the health of neighborhoods?
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If people experienced virtual tree planting-scenarios would it help them support tree planting?
Health Benefits of Hospital Farms and Gardens
More and more hospitals are creating gardens, farms and other green spaces on their campuses to create healthy environments. I work with hospitals who have gardens or farms to answer the following question:
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Does spending time at hospital gardens boost health and reduce burnout among practitioners?
Community Engaged Park Building
Research shows that the creation of urban parks is linked to improved health and reduced crime. Recently, organizations have begun to work with neighborhood residents to design, build, and maintain park spaces where they live. I help measure whether engaging in this process improves the health of participants and communities.
Nature-Based Therapy with reset outdoors
Increasingly, behavioral health practices are integrating nature into their sessions. I work with a behavioral health practice to answer the following question:
What is the health impact of nature-based behavioral health services?
Health Impacts of Window Views of Nature at Medical Facilities
Hospitals and healthcare facilities are often stressful places for employees, patients, and visitors. This project will help answer the following question:
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Does viewing nature through the windows of healthcare facilities impact people's health and experience?
Mindfulness In Nature
Mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress and improve happiness. The beneficial effects of mindfulness practices are enhanced when done in natural settings. I work with organizations that teach children mindfulness practices in nature during schools to answer the following question:
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What is the impact of school-administered nature-based mindfulness programs on health?
parks and neighborhood health in bethlehem, pa
Parks are an important component of community living. Bethlehem PA has a strong parks system composed of over 20 public parks containing amenities for recreation, socializing, event spaces, and natural features. I work to monitor the quality of public parks in Bethlehem and link the quality of parks to neighborhood health.
