Publication

In the 2014 the Austrian Research Centre for Forests BFW initiated the project "Green Care FOREST", which focuses on the social value of forests. Green Care FOREST is based on the study "Green Public Health". The results indicate that staying in a forest environment contributes to general wellbeing, protects against stress related diseases and supports mental health. 

Based on these findings, the 3rd International Conference on Landscape and Human Health is part of the project Green Care FOREST and is organised by the BFW, together with the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU Vienna). 

Our everyday fast-paced life, the growing disconnectedness from nature and decreasing possibilities to enjoy natural environments are the basis for discussion at the conference. 

The increase of nervousness, stress and burn-out as well as associated physical side effects in western societies are serious issues of our time. Nevertheless, the solution to these health problems might be just at our doorstep: in the natural and cultural landscapes surrounding us. They are perceived as recreative settings, counteracting the symptoms mentioned above. 

The organizers of this conference are looking forward to welcome researchers, public authorities, public health administrations as well as people involved and interested in landscape-based health offers to Vienna. They aim to connect scientific research with hands-on Green Care praxis and look forward to an international transfer of knowledge and experience. The conference is a place where current developments and scientific results can be displayed and shared. It will encourage conversations and networking as well as inspire new project ideas and point out need for actions. 

Presentations will focus on natural- and cultural landscapes such as forests, gardens or blue spaces. They will deal with different target groups, such as children and adolescents, people with special needs or seniors. They will give practical insights in Green Care projects and offer an outlook on future fields of action in policy and planning. 

Furthermore, the supporting program of the Conference and the conference city Vienna itself offer interesting insights into local natural and cultural landscapes: Despite being the largest city and capital of Austria, more than fifty percent of Vienna is made up of green spaces. Practical approaches during the excursions as well as the garden party during the Icebreaker at the BFW display only some of Austria’s rich natural and cultural landscapes. 

Human health is not only an important socio-political topic of today and the future. Our personal wellbeing defines our life and is often only then recognised when imbalanced. Nature itself, as our basis of life, has a significant influence on our health and wellbeing – and must not be forgotten or overlooked. Therefore, a responsible and sustainable treatment of nature is crucial and the best health insurance we could ask for!e latest research trends.