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Facilitate Physical Activity <br />A landmark report by the U.S. Surgeon General found that "Americans can <br />substantially improve their health and quality of life by including moderate <br />amounts of physical activity in their daily lives." It also found that "health <br />benefits appear to be proportional to the amount of activity; thus, every <br />increase in activity adds some benefit." Several studies have found that access <br />to public green spaces increases physical activity levels. Recognizing this <br />important concept, the U.S. Government has established the Rivers, Trails and <br />Conservation Assistance Program (RTCA), which serves to help local groups plan <br />and develop new trails, greenways and open space that are close to home and <br />encourage regular physical activity. <br />Improve Psychological Health <br />A growing body of research suggests that mere contact with the natural world <br />improves psychological health. Green settings have been shown to relieve <br />feelings of anxiety and improve our ability to cope with stressful situations. In <br />some cases, natural spaces provide therapy for conditions such as Attention <br />Deficit Disorder and improve cognitive function and work performance. In <br />addition, greenways, trails and parks provide safe places for kids to play, which <br />is vital in brain development in young children. <br />Reduce Negative Health affects Associated with Air Pollution <br />Greenways and trails serve as highways for alternative means of transportation. <br />Therefore, automobiles are used less frequently, resulting in lower overall <br />carbon dioxide levels. Additionally, increased tree density along these <br />greenways can mitigate air pollution by filtering pollutants out of the air, and <br />therefore decreasing the number of respiratory illnesses experienced by many <br />people. <br />Decrease Frequency of Automobile Accidents <br />Greenways and trails also provide safe routes for pedestrians and bicyclists to <br />travel. This separation from traffic can reduce the number of vehicle- <br />pedestrian and vehicle-bicyclist related accidents. <br />G-(,? <br />