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2026-02-25
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Copyright (c) 2026 Lam Thi Le, Thuy Nga Le Thi*, Bach Xuan Tran, Dieu Thi Thanh Bui

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How to Cite
Green spaces, mental well-being and the digital service age: Evidence and policy recommendations
Lam Thi Le
The University of Danang, University of Science and Education, Vietnam, 459 Ton Duc Thang Street, Hoa Khanh Ward, Da Nang, Viet Nam.
Thuy Nga Le Thi
Trade Union University, Vietnam, 169 Tay Son Street, Kim Lien Ward , Hanoi, Vietnam.(ORCID: 0009-0000-1130-9060)
Bach Xuan Tran
The University of Danang, University of Science and Education, Vietnam, 459 Ton Duc Thang Street, Hoa Khanh Ward, Da Nang, Viet Nam.
Dieu Thi Thanh Bui
The University of Danang, University of Science and Education, Vietnam, 459 Ton Duc Thang Street, Hoa Khanh Ward, Da Nang, Viet Nam.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59429/esp.v11i2.4575
Keywords: Green spaces; Blue spaces; Digital technology; Mental health; Public policy
Abstract
In the digital age, opportunities for direct contact with nature are increasingly limited, while scientific evidence shows that green and blue spaces offer numerous mental health benefits, such as reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and enhancing social connectedness. This paper reviews studies on the relationship between nature, technology, and mental health, analyzing the dual role of technology as both a supportive tool and a barrier when overused. Findings indicate that exposure to nature, whether direct or indirect has positive effects, yet a balanced strategy is needed to optimize these benefits. Initiatives from the WHO and the Blue Health project provide evidence and practical tools for integrating health considerations into urban planning and community interventions. The paper recommends developing urban green infrastructure, reducing inequalities in access, and leveraging digital technology as a a complementary rather than substitutive pathway for nature experiences.
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