A Statement from the Chair of World Urban Parks - #NatureNeverCloses
Concerns about the COVID-19 outbreak continue to grip our world. As an organization, World Urban
Parks advocates and supports the power of parks, open spaces, and nature as essential resources for
health and wellness. World Urban Parks understands that communities may have questions and
concerns about visiting their local parks, trails or open spaces at this time.
The USA Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has flagged mental health as a top concern
associated with the COVID-19 outbreak with the World Health Organization (WHO) addressing mental
health considerations amongst the COVID-19 outbreak. We recognize that stay-at-home measures and
physical distancing will likely take a toll on our mental health, especially during high-stress and anxietyproducing global public health emergencies. We also know from research documents how important
parks, open space and nature are to provide that “nature fix” for human survival – providing
opportunities for physical activity and regaining our emotional, psychological and mental balance all of
which are critical to reducing stress and improving our physical and mental health.
We believe that many parks and trails, open spaces and nature can continue to be used in a safe manner
that allows people to enjoy the mental and physical health benefits these spaces provide. In all
instances, we strongly recommend people follow Government directives and guidelines regarding the
use of these spaces and recognize that these vary from community to community. *
We encourage local jurisdictions to keep parks and trails and nature and open spaces accessible as long
as it is safe to do so.
Our local parks and trails and open spaces and nature have always served as places where people can
find respite and seek peace and restoration. During this time of uncertainty, these places are needed
now more than ever. Our park and recreation professionals are working hard to maintain these spaces
and keep them safe, accessible and benefiting our communities during these challenging times. We
encourage government leaders to engage their park and recreation professionals in the decision-making
process to ensure continued safe access to the critical parks and trails and open spaces and nature
during this health crisis.
Let us all do our part to encourage the use of parks and trails and open spaces and nature in ways that
respect each other, the public health guidance, and the treasured and critical spaces they are. Let us
come together as an international parks and recreation community to show support of the essential role
our sector has in the physical and mental wellbeing of all.
We invite you to sign on your support and participate in Parks Week – Parks for All #NatureNeverCloses
(April 25 – May 3, 2020)
Our Thanks – This Statement has been adapted from the National Recreation and Park Association (USA)
Joint Statement on Using Parks and Open Space While Maintaining Social Distancing.
Sign on to show your support»
*Disclaimer: World Urban Parks encourages you all to adhere to the WHO directives and guidelines and
we all practice physical-distancing and other critically important safety guidelines as stipulated by our
governments.