Unlocking Public Spaces for Youth Engagement: A Holistic Approach to Health and Nutrition
Public spaces are more than recreational areas; they hold the potential to become dynamic hubs for promoting physical activity, healthy eating, and social interaction among young people aged 10-18. Yet, in many cities, these vital spaces remain underused or inaccessible to youth, either by design or neglect. The Re-GEN URBACT Action planning network has taken up the challenge to redesign public spaces in such a way that they become vital arenas where the youngsters can gather, express themselves and connect with their communities.
In the context of increasing health concerns[1], innovative strategies that merge outdoor activities and nutrition education can foster lifelong healthy habits. Drawing on successful examples from across Europe and also outside of Europe, this article explores how local governments and communities can effectively transform public spaces into vibrant centers for youth engagement.
[1] Youth health in both the Netherlands and the EU faces significant challenges. In the Netherlands, 11.3% of children (ages 4-12) and 12.2% of teens (ages 12-16) are overweight, while 30% of students report mental health issues. Similarly, EU data highlights that nearly one in five youth deaths is linked to intentional self-harm
