ABSTRACT
The public realm is a well-recognized contributor to positive health and wellbeing. Public parks and recreational spaces are now some of the main outlets for people to get outdoors, however COVID-19 has created challenges in these spaces. We classify local government responses around maintaining physical distancing in the public realm using a preliminary conceptual map of theories and actions to identify variations in these approaches around the globe. This pilot classification approach provides a useful lens to examine pandemic responses, with future work building upon this map to potentially inform how cities may react to other complex planetary health issues.
© 2021 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group
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The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Notes on contributors
Alexander Wray
Alexander Wray is the Human Environments Analysis Laboratory is a state-of-the-art, multi-disciplinary research and training environment at Western University in London, Ontario, Canada. The lab specializes in the production, evaluation, synthesis, dissemination and mobilization of evidence needed for the development of effective policies, programs and professional practice aimed at creating healthy and vibrant communities. Alexander Wray is a Research Associate in the lab with a background in urban planning and health geography.
John Fleming
John Fleming is a Senior Research Associate and Adjunct Faculty member in the lab with over 30 years of professional experience in local government and urban planning.
Jason Gilliland
Dr. Jason Gilliland is the Director of the Human Environments Analysis Lab, Director of the Urban Development program, and holds appointments in geography, epidemiology and biostatistics, pediatrics, and health sciences.