The Region of Murcia leads the way in promoting the connection between health and environmental policies as part of the Interreg Europe GreenHealth project launched by the European Union. The project aims to incorporate initiatives focused on human well-being in protected area programs to positively impact health and raise awareness on the importance of nature.
On World Health Day, María Cruz Ferreira, the regional secretary of Energy, Sustainability, and Climate Action, emphasized the proven benefits of well-conserved natural spaces on human health. She highlighted the II NaturActívate Solidarity Route, a collaborative effort between the Mariano Yago Health Center, the Yecla Association of Cancer Sufferers, the Murcian Health Service, and the Yecla City Council, aimed at promoting health through nature activities.
The Region of Murcia collaborates with other territories and institutions, including Podkarpackie Region (Poland), Public Institution for the management of Protected Natural Areas of Dubrovnik-Neretva County (Croatia), Northern and Western Regional Assembly (Ireland), The Prešov Self-Governing Region (Slovakia), Kullaberg Nature Reserve (Sweden), and EUROPARC Federation (Germany), to address public health challenges and promote well-being through nature.
The project aims to raise awareness on the importance of forests for human well-being, especially in urban areas where sedentary lifestyles, social isolation, and an aging population pose significant health risks. By investing in biodiversity, protecting and restoring natural spaces, and promoting contact with nature, the Interreg Europe GreenHealth project is working towards improving public health and well-being for all.