The Green Imperative: Assessing the Psychosocial Impact of Urban Vegetation in Tashkent
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Abstract
As Uzbekistan undergoes rapid urbanization, exemplified by the swift expansion of Tashkent, the historical degradation of green infrastructure has emerged as a significant public health concern. This study investigates the nexus between urban green space (UGS) exposure and the mental well-being of residents in Tashkent. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research correlates satellite-derived vegetation indices with self-reported stress and anxiety levels among urban populations. The findings indicate that the precipitous decline in green coverage—from 34% to approximately 13% over the last six years—is positively correlated with increased psychological distress and diminished cognitive restoration. This paper argues that integrating "infrastructure for mental health" into the Uzbekistan–2030 Strategy is essential for mitigating the "urban penalty" of rapid growth.
References
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