insights How Hong Kong is using urban design to promote good mental health
Having positive mental health is essential to our overall well-being. It’s as important as physical health and several factors that contribute to the way people feel, including the environment. Studies have shown that connecting with nature can be a great way to improve well-being.
This
means it’s all the more important to ensure cities have more green spaces. In Hong
Kong, mental health has become a priority as a result of the political fallout
surrounding the city’s extradition bill. As one of the most densely populated
cities in the world, architects and construction managers are tasked with finding
solutions that will ensure liveability for current residents and future
generations.
At AtkinsRéalis, we believe in the importance of promoting well-being and mental health. We’re a global procurement, construction, and engineering company who delivers first class projects and services not just for clients, but for the greater good of societies too.
We
understand the link between architecture,
the environment and wellbeing and we know that in the current climate, there is
a core focus in Hong Kong to build structures that are sustainable and deliver
a positive mental impact. So, how is Hong Kong using urban design to promote
mental health?
Urban design for mental health
One of the main features of urban planning and design that impacts people’s mental health is the feeling of
insecurity in everyday life. For example, crowded streets, poorly designed roads,
and lack of street lighting can contribute to more stress and negatively impact
mental health. This also includes the cost and availability of public housing,
which is a long-standing challenge in Hong Kong. Many people living in Hong
Kong are waiting for public housing for extended periods. According to Urban
Design and Mental Health, it could take between 10 and 20 years to reduce the queue time.
There are ongoing projects that
could potentially improve mental health for residents. For example, Hong Kong
plans to build 10,000 public houses on Fanling Golf Course to tackle its growing housing
stock and create more space. With the majority of people in Hong Kong living in
tower blocks, it’s important to pave the way for a sustainable future and good
mental health, and sustainable construction with green building is a viable option. Enhancing the air
quality and adopting green practices will also help to achieve this, and according
to the BBC, Hong Kong is working toward creating more sustainable high-rise buildings, as the city aims to reach its target of Net
Zero emissions by 2050.
Building green spaces
In many cities, the lack of green
spaces has been known to have an impact on mental health. Research has found access to nature has several benefits, including reduced stress
and improved sleep and happiness – and a greater sense of meaning and purpose
in life. The Hong
Kong government has outlined objectives to improve the quality of the
city’s living environment through urban planning and public works. Some of the
urban planning includes carrying out planting works in urban areas, as well as
increasing the amount of planting along roadsides.
The use of green spaces can
encourage residents to build stronger social connections and a sense of
community, both of which are incredibly important for mental health. One of the
most prominent low-carbon, green buildings in China is TEDA H2 Building, which has been accredited with all four green
certifications. It’s an exemplary green building and one of the many inspiring
projects that could be implemented in Hong Kong to improve mental health.
Job opportunities in Hong Kong
As Hong Kong continue to expand and invest in urban planning, engineering and technical roles will continue to be in high demand in
the city. AtkinsRéalis has an excellent reputation in Hong Kong and we have
worked on a range of projects over the years – and we partner with
professionals at all levels of experience.
How AtkinsRéalis can help you
At AtkinsRéalis , with our engineering Net Zero strategy, we’re
committed to delivering sustainable results to our clients and candidates. We
partner with the top engineering and architectural businesses globally. We have
an excellent track record of recruiting the best talent into a variety of
roles, including civil engineer jobs, architecture jobs and mechanical
engineering jobs. Our vision of connecting people, data and technology are what drives us and due to our
expertise and experience, we can support you at any stage of your project.
We’re always looking to partner
with the best talent around the globe, so contact us today for more
information. Take a look at our architecture jobs in
Hong Kong and sign up for our job alerts.
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