From Greening to Wellbeing: Critical spatial data science for green infrastructure, mental health and wellbeing in the UK
In this talk, I will explore how spatial data science can help us understand , and ultimately transform , the relationships between green infrastructure, mental health, and wellbeing. Drawing on ongoing work across multiple scales and contexts in the UK, I will present a synthesis of studies examining how the quantity, quality, and accessibility of green and blue spaces influence mental health, and how these effects vary across different population groups.

The research addresses key gaps in understanding the specific amount, type, and quality of green space needed to deliver mental health benefits. Also looking at how environmental policies make the change on green infrastructure change the pattern of social and special inequalities. The findings aim to inform urban planning and environmental policy, advocating for inclusive, evidence-based strategies that ensure residents can benefit from nature-based wellbeing interventions.
Date: 4 December 2025, 13:00
Venue: Dyson Perrins Building, off South Parks Road OX1 3QY
Venue Details: Desert Room
Speaker: Dr Wenjing (Wendee) Zhang (Environmental Change Institute, University of Oxford)
Organising department: Environmental Change Institute
Organiser: Dr Avidesh Seenath (Environmental Change Institute, University of Oxford)
Organiser contact email address: avidesh.seenath@eci.ox.ac.uk
Host: Dr Avidesh Seenath (Environmental Change Institute, University of Oxford)
Part of: ECM Brown Bag Seminar Series
Booking required?: Not required
Audience: Members of the University only
Editor: Avidesh Seenath