Advancing GreenCare in Europe: an integrated multi-scalar approach for the Expansion of Nature-based therapies to improve Mental health Equity

Over four years, GREENME aims to co-create context-specific frameworks for scaling-up nature-based therapy to promote adult mental health equity in Europe using a transdisciplinary approach. We do so acknowledging that partnerships between nature-based therapies providers, national health systems, insurance providers and other relevant stakeholders have varying challenges depending on health care delivery models, and that nature-based therapies have not been designed to work in line with a comprehensive
strategy of green care (i.e. a continuum from daily interaction with nature to intensive nature-based therapy programs). GREENME is structured around: (i) learning from existing interventions; (ii) co-designing and co-producing research and policy guidelines; and (iii) a focus on health equity and environmental justice. Our consortium includes partners in five EU countries (Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, Sweden), one associated country (UK) and an associated partner (the US). Of these, four are frontrunners in nature-based
therapy and three are followers. All GREENME cities/regions will explore nature-in-everyday-life and opportunities and challenges to further improve the implementation of nature-based health promotion and nature-based therapies. Using robust epidemiologic trial methodologies, nature-based therapy programs representing a diversity of settings (urban, peri-urban, rural, coastal) in each
frontrunner country and in our associated country partner will be further analysed. GREENME will impact governments, landowners, local communities, healthcare practitioners, nature-based therapy providers and the scientific community locally, regionally, nationally, at the EU level and internationally, while creating new green jobs. With our participatory research design and holistic approach, GREENME has the potential to develop tools to promote climate resilient, sustainable, greener, healthier and equitable
living environments.