Where and How to Invest in Greenspace for Optimal Health Benefits: A Systematic Review of Greenspace Morphology and Human Health Relationships

Six primary characteristics of greenspace morphology have been studied, including size, shape, fragmentation, connectedness, aggregation, and diversity. While associations between greenspace morphology and health outcomes have been observed, both their reliability and generalizability remain suggestive due to ecological study designs and heterogeneity among studies. Future research should prioritize individual-level prospective cohorts and intervention studies. Exploring mechanisms linking greenspace morphology and health, determining optimal map resolution, and distinguishing it from greenness magnitude in statistical analysis is essential. This evidence is crucial for health-promoting greenspace planning and should be routinely integrated into urban epidemiological research.