Journal articles
Williams AJ, Menneer T, Sidana M, Walker T, Maguire K, Mueller M, Paterson C, Leyshon M, Leyshon C, Seymour E, et al (In Press). Fostering Engagement with Health and Housing Innovation: Development of Participant Personas in a Social Housing Cohort (Preprint).
Abstract:
Fostering Engagement with Health and Housing Innovation: Development of Participant Personas in a Social Housing Cohort (Preprint)
. BACKGROUND
. Personas, based on customer or population data, are widely used to inform design decisions in the commercial sector. The variety of methods available means that personas can be produced from projects of different types and scale.
.
.
. OBJECTIVE
. This study aims to experiment with the use of personas that bring together data from a survey, household air measurements and electricity usage sensors, and an interview within a research and innovation project, with the aim of supporting eHealth and eWell-being product, process, and service development through broadening the engagement with and understanding of the data about the local community.
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.
. METHODS
. The project participants were social housing residents (adults only) living in central Cornwall, a rural unitary authority in the United Kingdom. A total of 329 households were recruited between September 2017 and November 2018, with 235 (71.4%) providing complete baseline survey data on demographics, socioeconomic position, household composition, home environment, technology ownership, pet ownership, smoking, social cohesion, volunteering, caring, mental well-being, physical and mental health–related quality of life, and activity. K-prototype cluster analysis was used to identify 8 clusters among the baseline survey responses. The sensor and interview data were subsequently analyzed by cluster and the insights from all 3 data sources were brought together to produce the personas, known as the Smartline Archetypes.
.
.
. RESULTS
. The Smartline Archetypes proved to be an engaging way of presenting data, accessible to a broader group of stakeholders than those who accessed the raw anonymized data, thereby providing a vehicle for greater research engagement, innovation, and impact.
.
.
. CONCLUSIONS
. Through the adoption of a tool widely used in practice, research projects could generate greater policy and practical impact, while also becoming more transparent and open to the public.
.
Abstract.
Morrissey KM, Taylor T, Sharpe R, Fleming L, Morris G, Wigglesworth R (In Press). Making the Case for “Whole System” Approaches Integrating Public Health and Housing. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 15, 2345-2345.
Bell R, Khan M, Romeo-Velilla M, Stegeman I, Godfrey A, Taylor T, Morris G, Staatsen B, Van der Vliet N, Kruize H, et al (In Press). Ten lessons for good practice for the INHERIT triple-win: Health, Equity, and Environmental Sustainability. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Davison SMC, White MP, Pahl S, Taylor T, Borja A, McMeel O, Kellett P, Roberts BR, Fleming LE (2023). Concern about the human health implications of marine biodiversity loss is higher among less educated and poorer citizens: Results from a 14-country study in Europe. Frontiers in Marine Science, 10
Alvarado M, Lovell R, Guell C, Taylor T, Fullam J, Garside R, Zandersen M, Wheeler B (2023). Street trees and mental health: developing systems thinking-informed hypotheses using causal loop diagraming. Ecology and Society, 28(2).
Johnes C, Sharpe RA, Menneer T, Taylor T, Nestel P (2023). Using Sensor Data to Identify Factors Affecting Internal Air Quality within 279 Lower Income Households in Cornwall, South West of England.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health,
20(2), 1075-1075.
Abstract:
Using Sensor Data to Identify Factors Affecting Internal Air Quality within 279 Lower Income Households in Cornwall, South West of England
(1) Background: Poor air quality affects health and causes premature death and disease. Outdoor air quality has received significant attention, but there has been less focus on indoor air quality and what drives levels of diverse pollutants in the home, such as particulate matter, and the impact this has on health; (2) Methods: This study conducts analysis of cross-sectional data from the Smartline project. Analyses of data from 279 social housing properties with indoor sensor data were used to assess multiple factors that could impact levels of particulate matter. T-Tests and Anova tests were used to explore associations between elevated PM2.5 and building, household and smoking and vaping characteristics. Binary logistic regression was used to test the association between elevated particulate matter and self-reported health; (3) Results: of the multiple potential drivers of the particulate matter investigated, smoking and vaping were significantly associated with mean PM2.5. Following multivariate analysis, only smoking remained significantly associated with higher mean concentrations. Properties in which <15 cigarettes/day were smoked were predicted to have PM2.5 concentrations 9.06 µg/m3 higher (95% CI 6.4, 12.82, p ≤ 0.001) than those in which residents were non-smokers and 11.82 µg/m3 higher (95% CI 7.67, 18.19, p ≤ 0.001) where >15 cigarettes were smoked; (4) Conclusions: a total of 25% of social housing properties in this study experienced levels of indoor PM greater than WHO guideline levels for ambient air pollution. Although there are many factors that impact air quality, in this study the main driver was smoking. This highlights the importance of targeting smoking in indoor environments in future smoking cessation and control policy and practice and of understanding how pollutants interact in the home environment. There is also a need for further research into the impact on indoor air quality of vaping, particularly due to the rise in use and uncertainty of its long-term impact.
Abstract.
Boerger T, Maccagnan A, White MP, Elliott LR, Taylor T (2023). Was the trip worth it? Consistency between decision and experienced utility assessments of recreational nature visits.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS,
105(2), 525-545.
Author URL.
Jones L, Anderson S, Læssøe J, Banzhaf E, Jensen A, Bird DN, Miller J, Hutchins MG, Yang J, Garrett J, et al (2022). A typology for urban Green Infrastructure to guide multifunctional planning of nature-based solutions. Nature-Based Solutions, 2, 100041-100041.
McEwen L, Roberts L, Holmes A, Blake J, Liguori A, Taylor T (2022). Building local capacity for managing environmental risk: a transferable framework for participatory, place-based, narrative-science knowledge exchange.
SUSTAINABILITY SCIENCE,
17(6), 2489-2511.
Author URL.
Tu G, Morrissey K, Sharpe RA, Taylor T (2022). Combining self-reported and sensor data to explore the relationship between fuel poverty and health well-being in UK social housing. Wellbeing Space and Society, 3
Oheneba-Dornyo TV, Amuzu S, Maccagnan A, Taylor T (2022). Estimating the Impact of Temperature and Rainfall on Malaria Incidence in Ghana from 2012 to 2017.
ENVIRONMENTAL MODELING & ASSESSMENT,
27(3), 473-489.
Author URL.
Wuijts S, de Vries M, Zijlema W, Hin J, Elliott LR, Breemen LD-V, Scoccimarro E, de Roda Husman AM, Külvik M, Frydas IS, et al (2022). The health potential of urban water: Future scenarios on local risks and opportunities. Cities, 125
Long E, Stevens S, Topciu R, Williams AJ, Taylor TJ, Morrissey K (2022). Wellbeing and Social Network Characteristics in Rural Communities: Findings from a Cohort in Social Housing in Cornwall, United Kingdom.
Int J Community Wellbeing,
5(3), 559-570.
Abstract:
Wellbeing and Social Network Characteristics in Rural Communities: Findings from a Cohort in Social Housing in Cornwall, United Kingdom.
The mental wellbeing of those living in resource poor and rural localities is a public health priority. Despite evidence of a link between social networks and mental wellbeing, little is known about this relationship in the context of rural and resource poor environments. The current study uses novel social network methodology to investigate the extent to which social network size and composition is related to mental wellbeing in a social housing community in rural England. Data come from 88 individuals living in social housing in Cornwall. These participants are part of a larger study of 329 social housing households surveyed in 2017 and 2018. Mental wellbeing was measured by the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (SWEMWBS). A series of multivariable linear regression models were used to test associations between social network characteristics and mental wellbeing. Social network size was significantly associated with the SWEMWBS (b = 0.39, p
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Author URL.
Menneer T, Qi Z, Taylor T, Paterson C, Tu G, Elliott LR, Morrissey K, Mueller M (2021). Changes in Domestic Energy and Water Usage during the UK COVID-19 Lockdown Using High-Resolution Temporal Data.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health,
18(13), 6818-6818.
Abstract:
Changes in Domestic Energy and Water Usage during the UK COVID-19 Lockdown Using High-Resolution Temporal Data
In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the UK Government provided public health advice to stay at home from 16 March 2020, followed by instruction to stay at home (full lockdown) from 24 March 2020. We use data with high temporal resolution from utility sensors installed in 280 homes across social housing in Cornwall, UK, to test for changes in domestic electricity, gas and water usage in response to government guidance. Gas usage increased by 20% following advice to stay at home, the week before full lockdown, although no difference was seen during full lockdown itself. During full lockdown, morning electricity usage shifted to later in the day, decreasing at 6 a.m. and increasing at midday. These changes in energy were echoed in water usage, with a 17% increase and a one-hour delay in peak morning usage. Changes were consistent with people getting up later, spending more time at home and washing more during full lockdown. Evidence for these changes was also observed in later lockdowns, but not between lockdowns. Our findings suggest more compliance with an enforced stay-at-home message than with advice. We discuss implications for socioeconomically disadvantaged households given the indication of inability to achieve increased energy needs during the pandemic.
Abstract.
Craveiro D, Marques S, Zvěřinová I, Máca V, Ščasný M, Chiabai A, Suarez C, Martinez-Juarez P, García de Jalón S, Quiroga S, et al (2021). Explaining inequalities in fruit and vegetable intake in Europe: the role of capabilities, opportunities and motivations.
Appetite,
165Abstract:
Explaining inequalities in fruit and vegetable intake in Europe: the role of capabilities, opportunities and motivations.
People who do not eat enough fruit and vegetables (F&V) have incremental health risks. Most Europeans do not comply with health recommendations relating to F&V consumption and this is especially true for those with lower-level education, which reinforces structural inequalities in health and wellbeing among Europeans. This study investigated the role of key behavioural triggers - capabilities, opportunities and motivation (in the COM-B model) - as pathways for educational differentials in F&V intake in Europe. A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted in five European countries differing widely in their consumption habits, wealth, and climatic conditions. A structural equation model was designed to study how capabilities (diet perceived knowledge, health purchase criteria), opportunities (financial availability, social norms), and motivations (health value, habits strength) affect educational inequalities in the intake of F&V (5 portions a day) as mediators. Multi-group comparisons assessed country differences. People with higher levels of education were more likely to eat the recommended diet, i.e. at least 5 portions of F&V a day. Countries in the sample vary significantly in the percentage of people complying with the recommendation, but not significantly in terms of relative education differentials. The educational gap in the intake of F&V is mainly explained by education differentials in financial availability, diet knowledge, and habits in inserting F&V in main meals. Policies targeting dietary inequalities should address behavioural triggers affecting dietary intake, for example by subsidising F&V, developing targeted dietary awareness campaigns, or by intervening in mass catering contexts to facilitate the implementation of healthy habits.
Abstract.
Author URL.
Williams AJ, Menneer T, Sidana M, Walker T, Maguire K, Mueller M, Paterson C, Leyshon M, Leyshon C, Seymour E, et al (2021). Fostering Engagement with Health and Housing Innovation: Development of Participant Personas in a Social Housing Cohort.
JMIR Public Health and Surveillance,
7(2), e25037-e25037.
Abstract:
Fostering Engagement with Health and Housing Innovation: Development of Participant Personas in a Social Housing Cohort
BackgroundPersonas, based on customer or population data, are widely used to inform design decisions in the commercial sector. The variety of methods available means that personas can be produced from projects of different types and scale.ObjectiveThis study aims to experiment with the use of personas that bring together data from a survey, household air measurements and electricity usage sensors, and an interview within a research and innovation project, with the aim of supporting eHealth and eWell-being product, process, and service development through broadening the engagement with and understanding of the data about the local community.MethodsThe project participants were social housing residents (adults only) living in central Cornwall, a rural unitary authority in the United Kingdom. A total of 329 households were recruited between September 2017 and November 2018, with 235 (71.4%) providing complete baseline survey data on demographics, socioeconomic position, household composition, home environment, technology ownership, pet ownership, smoking, social cohesion, volunteering, caring, mental well-being, physical and mental health–related quality of life, and activity. K-prototype cluster analysis was used to identify 8 clusters among the baseline survey responses. The sensor and interview data were subsequently analyzed by cluster and the insights from all 3 data sources were brought together to produce the personas, known as the Smartline Archetypes.ResultsThe Smartline Archetypes proved to be an engaging way of presenting data, accessible to a broader group of stakeholders than those who accessed the raw anonymized data, thereby providing a vehicle for greater research engagement, innovation, and impact.ConclusionsThrough the adoption of a tool widely used in practice, research projects could generate greater policy and practical impact, while also becoming more transparent and open to the public.
Abstract.
Paterson CA, Sharpe RA, Taylor T, Morrissey K (2021). Indoor PM2.5, VOCs and asthma outcomes: a systematic review in adults and their home environments.
Environ Res,
202Abstract:
Indoor PM2.5, VOCs and asthma outcomes: a systematic review in adults and their home environments.
INTRODUCTION: As the amount of time people spend indoors increases globally, exposure to indoor air pollutants has become an important public health concern. Asthma is a complex disease caused and/or exacerbated by increased exposure to diverse chemical, physical and biological exposures from multiple indoor and outdoor sources. This review aims to investigate the relationship between increased indoor PM and VOC concentrations (i.e. objectively measured) and the risk of adult asthma in higher-income countries. METHODS: Eleven databases were systematically searched on the February 1, 2019 and again on the February 2, 2020. Articles were limited to those published since 1990. Reference lists were independently screened by three reviewers and authors were contacted to identify relevant articles. Backwards and forward citation chasing was used to identify further studies. Data were extracted from included studies meeting our eligibility criteria by three reviewers and assessed for quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale designed for case-control and cohort studies. RESULTS: Twelve studies were included in a narrative synthesis. We found insufficient evidence to determine the effect of PM2.5 on asthma in the indoor home environment. However, there was strong evidence to suggest that VOCs, especially aromatic compounds, and aliphatic compounds, were associated with increased asthma symptoms. DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION: Although no single exposure appears to be responsible for the development of asthma or its associated symptoms, the use of everyday products may be associated with increased asthma symptoms. To prevent poor health outcomes among the general population, health professionals and industry must make a concerted effort to better inform the general population of the importance of appropriate use of and storage of chemicals within the home as well as better health messaging on product labelling.
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Davison SMC, White MP, Pahl S, Taylor T, Fielding K, Roberts BR, Economou T, McMeel O, Kellett P, Fleming LE, et al (2021). Public concern about, and desire for research into, the human health effects of marine plastic pollution: Results from a 15-country survey across Europe and Australia. Global Environmental Change, 69, 102309-102309.
Hu X, Pierce JT, Taylor T, Morrissey K (2021). The carbon footprint of general anaesthetics: a case study in the UK.
Resources, Conservation and Recycling,
167Abstract:
The carbon footprint of general anaesthetics: a case study in the UK
The UK National Health Service (NHS) aims to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. One measure for reaching this target outlined in the NHS long-term plan (2019) is to reduce the carbon footprint of inhalational anaesthetic gases (IAGs). We modelled the synthesis of commonly used IAGs - sevoflurane, isoflurane, and desflurane - in comparison to intravenous propofol and estimated the carbon footprint generated throughout their lifetime, from manufacturing of raw materials to emissions of IAGs vented from operating theatres. We find that the carbon footprint of IAGs varies significantly depending on the method of chemical synthesis. Our results indicate that the carbon footprint of IAGs is minimised when using oxygen/air mix as the carrier gas at the lowest flow rate while applying a vapour capture technology (VCT). In this scenario, the carbon footprint of sevoflurane per minimum alveolar concentration hour is similar to that of propofol, which is a significant finding given that previous studies have favoured propofol as a means of carbon footprint reduction and only the active pharmaceutical ingredient of propofol was examined. Further, we show that the carbon footprint of sevoflurane used in the NHS during 2018, in the absence of VCTs, is not smaller than that of desflurane if sevoflurane is synthesised from tetrafluoroethylene. Therefore, to reduce the carbon footprint of IAGs, this study supports the continued reduction in the use of nitrous oxide and recommends a wider adoption of VCTs.
Abstract.
García de Jalón S, Chiabai A, Quiroga S, Suárez C, Ščasný M, Máca V, Zvěřinová I, Marques S, Craveiro D, Taylor T, et al (2021). The influence of urban greenspaces on people's physical activity: a population-based study in Spain.
Landscape and Urban Planning,
215Abstract:
The influence of urban greenspaces on people's physical activity: a population-based study in Spain
Past research has described positive associations between exposure to urban greenspaces and people's physical activity. However, there is variation in the relationship since it may differ according to the type of physical activity, socio-economic factors and use, as well as intrinsic characteristics of greenspaces. This study assesses the influence of urban greenspaces on distinct types of physical activity accounting for indicators such as vegetation quantity, tree cover density and green surface. The study combines data of a survey across Spain (n = 2063) with data derived from satellite imagery – including normalized difference vegetation indexes (NDVI), tree cover density and land-use cover data. A generalized linear mixed model was used to evaluate the association between urban greenspaces and physical activity as well as to evaluate the effect of main socio-economic determinants. After adjustment for potential confounders, greater availability in greenspace was found to be related with decreased sedentary time and increased walking. Besides exposure to urban greenspaces, physical activity was found to be associated with household income, pro-environmental attitudes, lifestyles and eating habits. The results also showed that exposure to greenspaces in rural areas had considerably weaker effect than in urban areas. The results suggest that efforts should be made to provide access to new greenspaces where possible, in order to foster walking and improve population health.
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Börger T, Campbell D, White MP, Elliott LR, Fleming LE, Garrett JK, Hattam C, Hynes S, Lankia T, Taylor T, et al (2021). The value of blue-space recreation and perceived water quality across Europe: a contingent behaviour study.
Sci Total Environ,
771Abstract:
The value of blue-space recreation and perceived water quality across Europe: a contingent behaviour study.
This study estimates the value of recreational visits to blue-space sites across 14 EU Member States, representing 78% of the Union's population. Across all countries surveyed, respondents made an average of 47 blue-space visits per person per year. Employing travel cost and contingent behaviour methods, the value of a visit is estimated at €41.32 which adds up to a recreational value of €631bn per year for the total adult population surveyed. Using the Bathing Water Directive's water quality designation, the analysis shows that a one-level improvement in water quality leads to 3.13 more visits (+6.67%), whereas a one-level deterioration leads to 9.77 fewer annual visits (-20.83%). This study provides valuations of benefits of recreation and changes of recreational values due to changes in surface water quality, which can be compared to the implementation and monitoring costs of efforts under the EU's Bathing Water, Water Framework and Marine Strategy Framework Directives.
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Esmene S, Taylor TJ, Leyshon M (2020). A Systems Thinking Approach to Exploring the Influence of the Media on How Publics Engage with and Develop Dialogues Relating to Electric Vehicles. Frontiers in Communication, 5
Odebeatu CC, Taylor T, Fleming LE, Osborne NJ (2020). Correction to: Phthalates and asthma in children and adults: US NHANES 2007–2012 (Environmental Science and Pollution Research, (2019), 26, 27, (28256-28269), 10.1007/s11356-019-06003-2).
Environmental Science and Pollution Research,
27(10).
Abstract:
Correction to: Phthalates and asthma in children and adults: US NHANES 2007–2012 (Environmental Science and Pollution Research, (2019), 26, 27, (28256-28269), 10.1007/s11356-019-06003-2)
The correct presentation name of the 4th Author is shown in this paper.
Abstract.
Esmene S, Taylor TJ, Leyshon M (2020). Corrigendum: a Systems Thinking Approach to Exploring the Influence of the Media on How Publics Engage with and Develop Dialogues Relating to Electric Vehicles. Frontiers in Communication, 5
Walker T, Menneer T, Leyshon C, Leyshon M, Williams AJ, Mueller M, Taylor T (2020). Determinants of Volunteering Within a Social Housing Community.
VOLUNTAS: International Journal of Voluntary and Nonprofit Organizations,
33(1), 188-200.
Abstract:
Determinants of Volunteering Within a Social Housing Community
AbstractIn general, research demonstrates that deprivation, education, health, and well-being are determinants of volunteering, and that volunteering can play an important role in building stronger communities and provides many benefits for individual health and well-being. This study concentrates on the effects of physical and mental health and well-being as predictors when the aspect of socio-economic impact has been minimised. It utilises a unique data set from a UK Housing Association community with generally high levels of deprivation. Data were analysed using bivariate probit regression. In contrast to previous findings, physical health and mental health were not significantly related to volunteering. The key finding was that mental well-being was significantly related to informal volunteering.
Abstract.
Stegeman I, Godfrey A, Romeo-Velilla M, Bell R, Staatsen B, van der Vliet N, Kruize H, Morris G, Taylor T, Strube R, et al (2020). Encouraging and Enabling Lifestyles and Behaviours to Simultaneously Promote Environmental Sustainability, Health and Equity: Key Policy Messages from INHERIT.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health,
17(19), 7166-7166.
Abstract:
Encouraging and Enabling Lifestyles and Behaviours to Simultaneously Promote Environmental Sustainability, Health and Equity: Key Policy Messages from INHERIT
Human consumption and activity are damaging the global ecosystem and the resources on which we rely for health, well-being and survival. The COVID-19 crisis is yet another manifestation of the urgent need to transition to more sustainable societies, further exposing the weaknesses in health systems and the injustice in our societies. It also underlines that many of the factors leading to environmental degradation, ill health and social and health inequities are interlinked. The current situation provides an unprecedented opportunity to invest in initiatives that address these common factors and encourage people to live more healthily and sustainably. Such initiatives can generate the positive feedback loops needed to change the systems and structures that shape our lives. INHERIT (January 2016–December 2019), an ambitious, multisectoral and transnational research project that involved 18 organisations across Europe, funded by the European Commission, explored such solutions. It identified, defined and analysed promising inter-sectoral policies, practices and approaches to simultaneously promote environmental sustainability, protect and promote health and contribute to health equity (the INHERIT “triple-win”) and that can encourage and enable people to live, move and consume more healthfully and sustainably. It also explored the facilitators and barriers to working across sectors and in public private cooperation. The insights were brought together in guidelines setting out how policy makers can help instigate and support local “triple-win” initiatives that influence behaviours as an approach to contributing to the change that is so urgently needed to stem environmental degradation and the interlinked threats to health and wellbeing. This article sets out this guidance, providing timely insights on how to “build back better” in the post pandemic era.
Abstract.
Chiabai A, Quiroga S, Martinez-Juarez P, Suárez C, García de Jalón S, Taylor T (2020). Exposure to green areas: Modelling health benefits in a context of study heterogeneity.
Ecological Economics,
167Abstract:
Exposure to green areas: Modelling health benefits in a context of study heterogeneity
Although the beneficial health effects of green areas are gaining recognition, epidemiological studies show mixed results with significance varying considerably by study and context, indicating that there is no unique and clear evidence. This relationship is influenced by multiple factors and characterised by high complexity not previously been incorporated in one single analysis. This study proposes a new application of the Heckman selection model to find evidence of key patterns emerging throughout the literature and identify main determinants affecting the relationship. The model aggregates outcomes of different studies and allows an assessment of both significant and non-significant results from the literature in order to correct for unobserved selection bias. Close attention is paid to the relevance of the background, particularly socioeconomic context. The results show significant health benefits associated with increased exposure to green areas, where higher risk reductions are observed for old and adult age groups, as well as in poorer countries, taking into account the correction for the publication bias. This last issue points towards a redistributive impact of green areas in terms of health and the importance of co-benefits arising from Ecosystem-based Adaptation, especially in poorer neighbourhoods, translating in health care savings and reduced productivity loss.
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Zvěřinová I, Máca V, Ščasný M, Strube R, Marques S, Dubová D, Kryl M, Craveiro D, Taylor T, Chiabai A, et al (2020). How to Achieve a Healthier and More Sustainable Europe by 2040 According to the Public? Results of a Five-Country Questionnaire Survey.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health,
17(17), 6071-6071.
Abstract:
How to Achieve a Healthier and More Sustainable Europe by 2040 According to the Public? Results of a Five-Country Questionnaire Survey
The aim of this paper is to understand public preferences for several future scenarios of achieving a healthier, more equitable and sustainable Europe, which differ in the way the society is organized (individualistically vs. collectively) and in the driving sector (public vs. private). To achieve this aim, we conducted a questionnaire survey using representative samples for five European countries in 2018. About three thousand respondents chose among the four scenarios presented within four different contexts (green spaces, active mobility, energy-efficient housing, food consumption) or none of them. A majority of people in the five European countries were ready to accept one of the scenarios. We found significant differences in preferences according to socioeconomic backgrounds and values of respondents. People above 35 years old, those who were less educated, and those in the lowest household income tertile were less supportive of all scenarios. The heterogeneity in preferences associated with differences in socioeconomic backgrounds was larger for the scenario in which society is organized individualistically and driven by the private sector. Smaller distinctions were found in case of the scenario in which society is organized collectively and is driven by the public sector. Departing from social psychological theories, we examine the role of altruistic, biospheric, egoistic, hedonic, and security values. People with stronger biospheric values were more likely to accept scenarios, particularly those which are driven by the public sector and where there is more collective organisation. Those with a more egoistic value orientation were more likely to have higher preferences for scenarios where the private sector had a dominant role. The policy implications, in terms of the selection and framing of policy measures to enhance public support, are discussed.
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García de Jalón S, Chiabai A, Mc Tague A, Artaza N, de Ayala A, Quiroga S, Kruize H, Suárez C, Bell R, Taylor T, et al (2020). Providing Access to Urban Green Spaces: a Participatory Benefit-Cost Analysis in Spain.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health,
17(8), 2818-2818.
Abstract:
Providing Access to Urban Green Spaces: a Participatory Benefit-Cost Analysis in Spain
The opening up of green spaces could provide significant benefits to society. This study develops a framework to assess the economic benefits and costs of public interventions providing citizen access to urban green spaces. The Thinking Fadura project in Getxo (Spain) was used as a case study. A method for participatory benefit-cost analysis is developed, where a stakeholder-participatory evaluation is combined with a standard cost-benefit analysis. The participatory evaluation followed a bottom-up approach in a sequential evaluation including three main focal points: key stakeholders and experts, visitors and the general public. The assessment demonstrates that the Thinking Fadura project’s benefits outweigh the costs. The results suggest that projects designed with the purpose of improving green space accessibility to the general public can be beneficial from a societal perspective. The highest economic benefits were an increase in the amenity and recreational value and an increase in people’s physical activity. The participatory evaluation indicates that giving access to people of lower socio-economic status and vulnerable groups and improving recreational use were perceived as the most beneficial. An increase in noise, dirt, and risk of criminal activities as well as potential conflicts between green space users were perceived as the most negative impacts of opening a previously restricted area to the general public. The economic assessment of Thinking Fadura project could serve as a model in the decision-making process in locations where the use of greenspaces is restricted.
Abstract.
Williams AJ, Maguire K, Morrissey K, Taylor T, Wyatt K (2020). Social cohesion, mental wellbeing and health-related quality of life among a cohort of social housing residents in Cornwall: a cross sectional study.
BMC Public Health,
20(1).
Abstract:
Social cohesion, mental wellbeing and health-related quality of life among a cohort of social housing residents in Cornwall: a cross sectional study.
BACKGROUND: Research and policy have identified social cohesion as a potentially modifiable determinant of health and wellbeing that could contribute to more sustainable development. However, the function of social cohesion appears to vary between communities. The aim of this study was to analyse the levels of, and associations, between social cohesion, mental wellbeing, and physical and mental health-related quality of life among a cohort of social housing residents from low socioeconomic status communities in Cornwall, UK. Social housing is below market-rate rental accommodation made available to those in certain health or economic circumstances. These circumstances may impact on the form and function of social cohesion. METHODS: During recruitment, participants in the Smartline project completed the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale, SF-12v2 and an eight item social cohesion scale. Cross sectional regression analyses of these data adjusted for gender, age, national identity, area socioeconomic status, rurality, education, employment, and household size were undertaken to address the study aim. RESULTS: Complete data were available from 305 (92.7%) participants in the Smartline project. Univariable analyses identified a significant association between social cohesion, mental wellbeing and mental health-related quality of life. Within fully adjusted multivariable models, social cohesion only remained significantly associated with mental wellbeing. Sensitivity analyses additionally adjusting for ethnicity and duration of residence, where there was greater missing data, did not alter the findings. CONCLUSIONS: Among a relatively homogeneous cohort, the reported level of social cohesion was only found to be significantly associated with higher mental wellbeing, not physical or mental health-related quality of life. The efforts made by social housing providers to offer social opportunities to all their residents regardless of individual physical or mental health state may support the development of a certain degree of social cohesion. Sense of control or safety in communities may be more critical to health than social cohesion. Additional observational research is needed before attempts are made to alter social cohesion to improve health.
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de Bell S, White M, Griffiths A, Darlow A, Taylor T, Wheeler B, Lovell R (2020). Spending time in the garden is positively associated with health and wellbeing: Results from a national survey in England. Landscape and Urban Planning, 200, 103836-103836.
Bryan K, Ward S, Roberts L, White MP, Landeg O, Taylor T, McEwen L (2020). The health and well-being effects of drought: assessing multi-stakeholder perspectives through narratives from the UK.
Climatic Change,
163(4), 2073-2095.
Abstract:
The health and well-being effects of drought: assessing multi-stakeholder perspectives through narratives from the UK
The global literature on drought and health highlights a variety of health effects for people in developing countries where certain prevailing social, economic and environmental conditions increase their vulnerability especially with climate change. Despite increased focus on climate change, relatively less is known about the health-drought impacts in the developed country context. In the UK, where climate change–related risk of water shortages has been identified as a key area for action, there is need for better understanding of drought-health linkages. This paper assesses people’s narratives of drought on health and well-being in the UK using a source-receptor-impact framing. Stakeholder narratives indicate that drought can present perceived health and well-being effects through reduced water quantity, water quality, compromised hygiene and sanitation, food security, and air quality. Heatwave associated with drought was also identified as a source of health effects through heat and wildfire, and drought-related vectors. Drought was viewed as potentially attributing both negative and positive effects for physical and mental health, with emphasis on mental health. Health impacts were often complex and cross-sectoral in nature indicating the need for a management approach across several sectors that targets drought and health in risk assessment and adaptation planning processes. Two recurring themes in the UK narratives were the health consequences of drought for ‘at-risk’ groups and the need to target them, and that drought in a changing climate presented potential health implications for at-risk groups.
Abstract.
Maccagnan A, Taylor T, White MP (2020). Valuing the Relationship Between Drug and Alcohol Use and Life Satisfaction: Findings from the Crime Survey for England and Wales.
Journal of Happiness Studies,
21(3), 877-898.
Abstract:
Valuing the Relationship Between Drug and Alcohol Use and Life Satisfaction: Findings from the Crime Survey for England and Wales
We analysed the relationship between drug use and wellbeing using data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales. We focused on cannabis use, the most commonly used drug, but also controlled for use of other drugs, alcohol consumption and a range of potential confounds. Measuring life satisfaction on a 0–10 scale, linear models found that people who had never used cannabis had significantly higher scores than current users (0.54). Never having used other types of drugs was also associated with 0.37 extra life satisfaction points. Moderate alcohol use (1–2 days per week) was associated with higher life satisfaction than abstainers or more regular drinkers. Following the “life satisfaction approach”, we estimated the extra income that would be needed to compensate for the wellbeing loss associated with cannabis use. Accounting for income endogeneity, our results suggested that being a current cannabis user may cost an individual over £5600 per year, in terms of lost wellbeing, while being a current user of other drugs may cost approximately £4000 per year. While acknowledging possible reverse causality, we estimated the annual population cost of drug use may be as high as £10.7bn in terms of lost wellbeing.
Abstract.
Xhelili A, Strube R, Grossi F, Zvěřinová I, Taylor T, Martinez-Juarez P, Quiroga S, Suárez C, Gjorgjev D (2019). A Technological Scenario for a Healthier, More Equitable and Sustainable Europe in 2040: Citizen Perceptions and Policy Implications.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health,
17(1), 231-231.
Abstract:
A Technological Scenario for a Healthier, More Equitable and Sustainable Europe in 2040: Citizen Perceptions and Policy Implications
This article aims at exploring, understanding and comparing European citizens’ insights and perceptions towards “My life between realities”, a positive future scenario which depicts a narrative of reaching healthier, more equitable and sustainable societies by 2040 with the support of technology and technological solutions. It responds to the need for gathering and incorporating more citizen insights into future policy developments and strategic actions to tackle the global challenge of unsustainable development. Citizens of five European countries—the Czech Republic, Germany, North Macedonia, Spain and the United Kingdom—have been consulted through focus groups. The exercise has uncovered citizens’ preferences and attitudes towards four main lifestyle areas; namely, green spaces, energy efficient housing, active mobility and (food) consumption. The technological attributes of the scenario led to citizens expressing diametrically opposed and critical perceptions and attitudes. Given the prospects of technology in driving sustainable development, based on these insights, policy recommendations for the better integration and acceptance of technological advances by the public are discussed herein.
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Moses L, Morrissey K, Sharpe RA, Taylor T (2019). Exposure to Indoor Mouldy Odour Increases the Risk of Asthma in Older Adults Living in Social Housing.
Int J Environ Res Public Health,
16(14).
Abstract:
Exposure to Indoor Mouldy Odour Increases the Risk of Asthma in Older Adults Living in Social Housing.
Background: Indoor dampness is thought to affect around 16% of European homes. It is generally accepted that increased exposure to indoor dampness and mould contamination (e.g. spores and hyphae) increases the risk of developing and/or exacerbating asthma. Around 30% of people in the Western world have an allergic disease (e.g. allergy, wheeze and asthma). The role of indoor mould contamination in the risk of allergic diseases in older adults is yet to be fully explored. This is of interest because older people spend more time indoors, as well as facing health issues due to the ageing process, and may be at greater risk of developing and/or exacerbating asthma as a result of indoor dampness. Methods: Face-to-face questionnaires were carried out with 302 participants residing in social housing properties located in South West England. Self-reported demographic, mould contamination (i.e. presence of mould growth and mouldy odour) and health information was linked with the asset management records (e.g. building type, age and levels of maintenance). Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate the odd ratios and confidence intervals of developing and/or exacerbating asthma, wheeze and allergy with exposure to reported indoor mould contamination. We adjusted for a range of factors that may affect asthma outcomes, which include age, sex, current smoking, presence of pets, education, and building type and age. To assess the role of mould contamination in older adults, we compared younger adults to those aged over 50 years. Results: Doctor-diagnosed adult asthma was reported by 26% of respondents, 34% had current wheeze while 18% had allergies. Asthma was common among subjects exposed to reported visible mould (32%) and reported mouldy odour (42%). Exposure to visible mould growth and mouldy odour were risk factors for asthma, but not for wheeze or allergy. Exposure to mouldy odour increased the risk of asthma in adults over the age of 50 years (odds ratio (OR) 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10-5.34) and the risk was higher for females than for males (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.37-9.08). These associations were modified by a range of built environment characteristics. Conclusions: We found that older adults living in social (public) housing properties, specifically women, may be at higher risk of asthma when exposed to mouldy odour, which has a number of implications for policy makers and practitioners working in the health and housing sector. Additional measures should be put in place to protect older people living in social housing against indoor damp and mould contamination.
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Author URL.
Sharpe RA, Machray KE, Fleming LE, Taylor T, Henley W, Chenore T, Hutchcroft I, Taylor J, Heaviside C, Wheeler BW, et al (2019). Household energy efficiency and health: Area-level analysis of hospital admissions in England.
Environment International,
133Abstract:
Household energy efficiency and health: Area-level analysis of hospital admissions in England
Introduction: Fuel poverty affects up to 35% of European homes, which represents a significant burden on society and healthcare systems. Draught proofing homes to prevent heat loss, improved glazing, insulation and heating (energy efficiency measures) can make more homes more affordable to heat. This has prompted significant investment in energy efficiency upgrades for around 40% of UK households to reduce the impact of fuel poverty. Despite some inconsistent evidence, household energy efficiency interventions can improve cardiovascular and respiratory health outcomes. However, the health benefits of these interventions have not been fully explored; this is the focus of this study. Methods: in this cross sectional ecological study, we conducted two sets of analyses at different spatial resolution to explore population data on housing energy efficiency measures and hospital admissions at the area-level (counts grouped over a 3-year period). Housing data were obtained from three data sets covering housing across England (Household Energy Efficiency Database), Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and, in the South West of England, the Devon Home Analytics Portal. These databases provided data aggregated to Lower Area Super Output Area and postcode level (Home Analytics Portal only). These datasets provided measures of both state (e.g. EPC ratings) and intervention (e.g. number of boiler replacements), aggregated spatially and temporally to enable cross-sectional analyses with health outcome data. Hospital admissions for adult (over 18 years) asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) were obtained from the Hospital Episode Statistics database for the national (1st April 2011 to 31st March 2014) and Devon, South West of England (1st April 2014 to 31st March 2017) analyses. Descriptive statistics and regression models were used to describe the associations between small area household energy efficiency measures and hospital admissions. Three main analyses were undertaken to investigate the relationships between; 1) household energy efficiency improvements (i.e. improved glazing, insulation and boiler upgrades); 2) higher levels of energy efficiency ratings (measured by Energy Performance Certificate ratings); 3) energy efficiency improvements and ratings (i.e. physical improvements and rating assessed by the Standard Assessment Procedure) and hospital admissions. Results: in the national analyses, household energy performance certificate ratings ranged from 37 to 83 (mean 61.98; Standard Deviation 5.24). There were a total of 312,837 emergency admissions for asthma, 587,770 for COPD and 839,416 for CVD. While analyses for individual energy efficiency metrics (i.e. boiler upgrades, draught proofing, glazing, loft and wall insulation) were mixed; a unit increase in mean energy performance rating was associated with increases of around 0.5% in asthma and CVD admissions, and 1% higher COPD admission rates. Admission rates were also influenced by the type of dwelling, tenure status (e.g. home owner versus renting), living in a rural area, and minimum winter temperature. Discussion: Despite a range of limitations and some mixed and contrasting findings across the national and local analyses, there was some evidence that areas with more energy efficiency improvements resulted in higher admission rates for respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. This builds on existing evidence highlighting the complex relationships between health and housing. While energy efficiency measures can improve health outcomes (especially when targeting those with chronic respiratory illness), reduced household ventilation rates can impact indoor air quality for example and increase the risk of diseases such as asthma. Alternatively, these findings could be due to the ecological study design, reverse causality, or the non-detection of more vulnerable subpopulations, as well as the targeting of areas with poor housing stock, low income households, and the lack of “whole house approaches” when retrofitting the existing housing stock. Conclusion: to be sustainable, household energy efficiency policies and resulting interventions must account for whole house approaches (i.e. consideration of the whole house and occupant lifestyles). These must consider more alternative ‘greener’ and more sustainable measures, which are capable of accounting for variable lifestyles, as well as the need for adequate heating and ventilation. Larger natural experiments and more complex modelling are needed to further investigate the impact of ongoing dramatic changes in the housing stock and health. Study implications: This study supports the need for more holistic approaches to delivering healthier indoor environments, which must consider a dynamic and complex system with multiple interactions between a range of interrelated factors. These need to consider the drivers and pressures (e.g. quality of the built environment and resident behaviours) resulting in environmental exposures and adverse health outcomes.
Abstract.
Odebeatu CC, Taylor T, Fleming LE, J. Osborne N (2019). Phthalates and asthma in children and adults: US NHANES 2007–2012.
Environmental Science and Pollution Research,
26(27), 28256-28269.
Abstract:
Phthalates and asthma in children and adults: US NHANES 2007–2012
Environmental exposure to phthalates may contribute to an increased risk of asthma in children and adults. We aimed to assess the direction and strength of the association between urinary phthalates metabolites and current asthma in children and adults that participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2012. Data on ten urinary phthalate metabolites, self-reported questionnaires, spirometry measures, and covariates were obtained from 7765 participants (28.1% were children aged 6–17 years) taking part in the NHANES 2007–2012. Asthma was assessed using self-reported questionnaires for children and adults, and via spirometry measures for adults alone. We used crude and adjusted logistic regression models to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) per one log10 unit change in the concentration of phthalate metabolites. We further modeled the effect modification by sex. Out of 10 metabolites, only mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP) was positively associated with the prevalence of self-reported asthma in children, after adjusting for a range of potential confounders (odds ratio 1.54; 95% confidence interval 1.05–2.27). No significant relationship was observed for adults. The association of mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP) was modified by sex, with significantly increased odds of asthma among males [boys (2.00; 1.14–3.51); adult males (1.32; 1.04–1.69)]. While no other phthalates showed a positive relationship with current asthma in males, mono-(carboxynonyl) phthalate (MCNP) and mono-(3-carboxylpropyl) phthalate (MCPP) were inversely associated with spirometrically defined asthma in adult females. A sex-specific relationship in adults was evident when spirometry, but not self-reported measures were used to define asthma. We found no clear association between exposure to phthalates and current asthma, except for a significant relationship between MBzP metabolites and self-reported asthma in children. As a result, exposure to phthalates and asthma development and/or exacerbations remains controversial, suggesting a need for a well-designed longitudinal study.
Abstract.
Maguire K, Garside R, Poland J, Fleming LE, Alcock I, Taylor T, Macintyre H, Lo Iacono G, Green A, Wheeler BW, et al (2019). Public involvement in research about environmental change and health: a case study.
Health,
23(2), 215-233.
Abstract:
Public involvement in research about environmental change and health: a case study.
Involving and engaging the public are crucial for effective prioritisation, dissemination and implementation of research about the complex interactions between environments and health. Involvement is also important to funders and policy makers who often see it as vital for building trust and justifying the investment of public money. In public health research, ‘the public’ can seem an amorphous target for researchers to engage with, and the short-term nature of research projects can be a challenge. Technocratic and pedagogical approaches have frequently met with resistance, so public involvement needs to be seen in the context of a history which includes contested truths, power inequalities and political activism. It is therefore vital for researchers and policy makers, as well as public contributors, to share best practice and to explore the challenges encountered in public involvement and engagement. This article presents a theoretically informed case study of the contributions made by the Health and Environment Public Engagement Group to the work of the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Change and Health (HPRU-ECH). We describe how Health and Environment Public Engagement Group has provided researchers in the HPRU-ECH with a vehicle to support access to public views on multiple aspects of the research work across three workshops, discussion of ongoing research issues at meetings and supporting dissemination to local government partners, as well as public representation on the HPRU-ECH Advisory Board. We conclude that institutional support for standing public involvement groups can provide conduits for connecting public with policy makers and academic institutions. This can enable public involvement and engagement, which would be difficult, if not impossible, to achieve in individual short-term and unconnected research projects.
Abstract.
Maccagnan A, Wren-Lewis S, Brown H, Taylor T (2019). Wellbeing and Society: Towards Quantification of the Co-benefits of Wellbeing.
Social Indicators Research,
141(1), 217-243.
Abstract:
Wellbeing and Society: Towards Quantification of the Co-benefits of Wellbeing
The objectives of this paper are twofold. First, it reviews the empirical evidence showing the existence of linkage between wellbeing and possible co-benefits, investigating in particular the positive effect that happiness and life satisfaction can have on health, social outcomes, employment, education and environmental behaviours. Second, it presents the valuation methods that have been proposed in the literature to place a monetary value on these outcomes. With wellbeing having become more and more relevant for individuals and policy makers, the full understanding of the co-benefits of wellbeing is central for the design and development of wellbeing interventions. As a consequence, the evaluation of the co-benefits of wellbeing is of crucial importance for the appropriate allocation of resources towards such strategies.
Abstract.
Fleming LE, Leonardi GS, White MP, Medlock J, Alcock I, Macintyre HL, Maguire K, Nichols G, Wheeler BW, Morris G, et al (2018). Beyond climate change and health: Integrating broader environmental change and natural environments for public health protection and promotion in the UK.
Atmosphere,
9(7).
Abstract:
Beyond climate change and health: Integrating broader environmental change and natural environments for public health protection and promotion in the UK
Increasingly, the potential short and long-term impacts of climate change on human health and wellbeing are being demonstrated. However, other environmental change factors, particularly relating to the natural environment, need to be taken into account to understand the totality of these interactions and impacts. This paper provides an overview of ongoing research in the Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) on Environmental Change and Health, particularly around the positive and negative effects of the natural environment on human health and well-being and primarily within a UK context. In addition to exploring the potential increasing risks to human health from water-borne and vector-borne diseases and from exposure to aeroallergens such as pollen, this paper also demonstrates the potential opportunities and co-benefits to human physical and mental health from interacting with the natural environment. The involvement of a Health and Environment Public Engagement (HEPE) group as a public forum of "critical friends" has proven useful for prioritising and exploring some of this research; such public involvement is essential to minimise public health risks and maximise the benefits which are identified from this research into environmental change and human health. Research gaps are identified and recommendations made for future research into the risks, benefits and potential opportunities of climate and other environmental change on human and planetary health.
Abstract.
Cloquet I, Palomino M, Shaw G, Stephen G, Taylor T (2018). Disability, social inclusion and the marketing of tourist attractions.
Journal of Sustainable Tourism,
26(2), 221-237.
Abstract:
Disability, social inclusion and the marketing of tourist attractions
The participation of persons with a disability (PWDs) in tourism has received growing academic interest in recent years. This paper contributes to a reflection on how accessible tourism relates to the sustainable development paradigm. To investigate this relationship, it goes beyond the question of PWDs’ access to tourism services, and adopts an inclusiveness perspective. Inclusion is examined in terms of legislation, marketing and imagery, and representations of PWDs as consumers embedded within social units–and families in particular. These dimensions are explored empirically in a study of visitor attractions in Cornwall (England) based on a quantitative and qualitative content analysis of brochures and websites. The study shows that the marketing materials of Cornish visitor attractions mainly focus on access, and the imagery used largely projects quasi invisibility or provides ambiguous messages. Communication with PWDs rarely addresses the family unit, making the family tourism experience intangible in the pre-trip phase. These results point at weaker implementation of inclusiveness, which corroborates previous findings of watered down definitions of rights to tourism under neo-liberal ideologies and economic crises. The paper discusses implications for social inclusion and highlights avenues for future research.
Abstract.
van der Vliet N, Staatsen B, Kruize H, Morris G, Costongs C, Bell R, Marques S, Taylor T, Quiroga S, Martinez Juarez P, et al (2018). The INHERIT Model: a Tool to Jointly Improve Health, Environmental Sustainability and Health Equity through Behavior and Lifestyle Change.
Int J Environ Res Public Health,
15(7).
Abstract:
The INHERIT Model: a Tool to Jointly Improve Health, Environmental Sustainability and Health Equity through Behavior and Lifestyle Change.
The need for analysis and action across the interrelated domains of human behaviors and lifestyles, environmental sustainability, health and inequality is increasingly apparent. Currently, these areas are often not considered in conjunction when developing policies or interventions, introducing the potential for suboptimal or conflicting outcomes. The INHERIT model has been developed within the EU-funded project INHERIT as a tool to guide thinking and intersectoral action towards changing the behaviors and lifestyles that play such an important role in today’s multidisciplinary challenges. The model integrates ecological public health and behavioral change models, emphasizing inequalities and those parts of the causal process that are influenced by human behaviors and lifestyles. The model was developed through web-based and live discussions with experts and policy stakeholders. To test the model’s usability, the model was applied to aspects of food consumption. This paper shows that the INHERIT model can serve as a tool to identify opportunities for change in important −food-related behaviors and lifestyles and to examine how they impact on health, health inequalities, and the environment in Europe and beyond. The INHERIT model helps clarify these interrelated domains, creating new opportunities to improve environmental health and health inequality, while taking our planetary boundaries into consideration.
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Author URL.
Chiabai A, Quiroga S, Martinez-Juarez P, Higgins S, Taylor T (2018). The nexus between climate change, ecosystem services and human health: Towards a conceptual framework.
Science of the Total Environment,
635, 1191-1204.
Abstract:
The nexus between climate change, ecosystem services and human health: Towards a conceptual framework
© 2018 the Authors This paper addresses the impact that changes in natural ecosystems can have on health and wellbeing focusing on the potential co-benefits that green spaces could provide when introduced as climate change adaptation measures. Ignoring such benefits could lead to sub-optimal planning and decision-making. A conceptual framework, building on the ecosystem-enriched Driver, Pressure, State, Exposure, Effect, Action model (eDPSEEA), is presented to aid in clarifying the relational structure between green spaces and human health, taking climate change as the key driver. The study has the double intention of (i) summarising the literature with a special emphasis on the ecosystem and health perspectives, as well as the main theories behind these impacts, and (ii) modelling these findings into a framework that allows for multidisciplinary approaches to the underlying relations between human health and green spaces. The paper shows that while the literature based on the ecosystem perspective presents a well-documented association between climate, health and green spaces, the literature using a health-based perspective presents mixed evidence in some cases. The role of contextual factors and the exposure mechanism are rarely addressed. The proposed framework could serve as a multidisciplinary knowledge platform for multi-perspecitve analysis and discussion among experts and stakeholders, as well as to support the operationalization of quantitative assessment and modelling exercises.
Abstract.
Taylor T, Mackie P (2017). Carbon footprinting in health systems: one small step towards planetary health. The Lancet Planetary Health, 1(9), e360-e367.
Alcock I, White M, Coldwell D, Taylor T, Evans K, Vardoulakis S, Corner A, Fleming L (2017). ‘Green’ on the ground but not in the air: Pro-environmental attitudes are related to household behaviours but not discretionary air travel. Global Environmental Change, In press
Esmene S, Taylor T, Leyshon M (2016). Knowledge, experience and the circus: academic perspectives on the processes of communicating the environmental and health impacts of electric vehicles. Local Environment, 22(6), 651-666.
White MP, Elliott LR, Taylor TJ, Wheeler BW, Spencer AE, Bone A, Depledge MH, Fleming LE (2016). Recreational physical activity in natural environments and implications for health: a population based cross-sectional study in England. Preventative Medicine
Tyrrell J, Whinney DJ, Taylor T (2016). The Cost of Ménière's Disease: a Novel Multisource Approach.
Ear Hear,
37(3), e202-e209.
Abstract:
The Cost of Ménière's Disease: a Novel Multisource Approach.
OBJECTIVES: to estimate the annual cost of Ménière's disease and the cost per person in the UK population and to investigate the direct and indirect costs of the condition. DESIGN: the authors utilized a multidata approach to provide the first estimate of the cost of Ménière's. Data from the UK Biobank (a study of 500,000 individuals collected between 2007 and 2012), the Hospital Episode Statistics (data on all hospital admissions in England from 2008 to 2012) and the UK Ménière's Society (2014) were used to estimate the cost of Ménière's. Cases were self-reported in the UK Biobank and UK Ménière's Society, within the Hospital Episode Statistics cases were clinician diagnosed. The authors estimated the direct and indirect costs of the condition, using count data to represent numbers of individuals reporting specific treatments, operations etc. and basic statistical analyses (χ tests, linear and logistic regression) to compare cases and controls in the UK Biobank. RESULTS: Ménière's was estimated to cost between £541.30 million and £608.70 million annually (equivalent to US $829.9 to $934.2 million), equating to £3,341 to £3,757 ($5112 to $5748) per person per annum. The indirect costs were substantial, with loss of earnings contributing to over £400 million per annum. CONCLUSIONS: for the first time, the authors were able to estimate the economic burden of Ménière's disease. In the UK, the annual cost of this condition is substantial. Further research is required to develop cost-effective treatments and management strategies for Ménière's to reduce the economic burden of the disease. These findings should be interpreted with caution due to the uncertainties inherent in the analysis.
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Author URL.
Palomino M, Taylor T, Göker A, Isaacs J, Warber S (2016). The Online Dissemination of Nature-Health Concepts: Lessons from Sentiment Analysis of Social Media Relating to "Nature-Deficit Disorder".
Int J Environ Res Public Health,
13(1).
Abstract:
The Online Dissemination of Nature-Health Concepts: Lessons from Sentiment Analysis of Social Media Relating to "Nature-Deficit Disorder".
Evidence continues to grow supporting the idea that restorative environments, green exercise, and nature-based activities positively impact human health. Nature-deficit disorder, a journalistic term proposed to describe the ill effects of people's alienation from nature, is not yet formally recognized as a medical diagnosis. However, over the past decade, the phrase has been enthusiastically taken up by some segments of the lay public. Social media, such as Twitter, with its opportunities to gather "big data" related to public opinions, offers a medium for exploring the discourse and dissemination around nature-deficit disorder and other nature-health concepts. In this paper, we report our experience of collecting more than 175,000 tweets, applying sentiment analysis to measure positive, neutral or negative feelings, and preliminarily mapping the impact on dissemination. Sentiment analysis is currently used to investigate the repercussions of events in social networks, scrutinize opinions about products and services, and understand various aspects of the communication in Web-based communities. Based on a comparison of nature-deficit-disorder "hashtags" and more generic nature hashtags, we make recommendations for the better dissemination of public health messages through changes to the framing of messages. We show the potential of Twitter to aid in better understanding the impact of the natural environment on human health and wellbeing.
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Author URL.
Reis S, Steinle S, Morris G, Fleming LE, Cowie H, Hurley F, Dick J, Smith R, Austen M, White M, et al (2015). Integrating Health & Environmental Impact Analysis. Public Health, 2015, 1383-1389.
Martinez-Juarez P, Chiabai A, Taylor T, Quiroga Gómez S (2015). The impact of ecosystems on human health and well-being: a critical review.
Journal of Outdoor Recreation and TourismAbstract:
The impact of ecosystems on human health and well-being: a critical review
Human health is a key factor for population well-being, and depends on the conditions and functioning of the ecosystem and its ability to provide adequate and healthy flows of ecosystem services, as stated by the well-known approach of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA). The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the literature focusing on the links between ecosystem services and human well-being, starting from a reinterpretation of the MEA framework. In this process, we highlight the need to consider the mechanism of exposure through passive, consumptive and active behaviour, as well as contextual factors such as socio-economic, demographic and climatic factors. In this context, tourism, recreation and leisure are linked to active engagement.The literature at present uses different measures of health and well-being, which suggests the need to develop harmonized approaches and new methods to assess the influence of study design on measured outcomes. In conclusion, the analysed studies show moderate evidence towards a positive impact of green environment, though positive and significant effects are not found in all cases examined.
Abstract.
Duane B, Taylor T, Stahl-Timmins W, Hyland J, Mackie P, Pollard A (2014). Carbon mitigation, patient choice and cost reduction--triple bottom line optimisation for health care planning.
Public Health,
128(10), 920-924.
Abstract:
Carbon mitigation, patient choice and cost reduction--triple bottom line optimisation for health care planning.
OBJECTIVES: Health services must provide safe, affordable clinical care whilst meeting efficiency, environmental and social targets. These targets include achieving reduced greenhouse gas emissions. A care pathway approach based on a decision-support tool can simultaneously reconfigure health services, improve productivity and reduce carbon emissions. STUDY DESIGN: Probabilistic modelling using secondary data analysis. METHODS: Estimates of carbon emitted by a health service drew on a previous carbon accounting study which integrated bottom-up assessment of carbon emissions with top-down analysis of indirect emissions by Duane et al. (2012).(1) Using human resource information, estimates were applied in a decision-support model to measure the carbon footprint and service provision of theoretical scenarios. Using this model, sites with less than 60% utilisation were theoretically reconfigured to reduce carbon emissions and improve service provision. RESULTS: Clinic utilisation rates improved from 50% to 78%. Human resource savings were identified which could be re-directed towards improving patient care. Patient travel for health care was halved resulting in significant savings in carbon emissions. CONCLUSIONS: the proposed model is an effective health care service analysis tool, ensuring optimal utilisation of health care sites and human resources with the lowest carbon footprint.
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Author URL.
Hartley C, Taylor TJ, Kiss IZ, Farmer SF, Berthouze L (2014). Identification of Criticality in Neuronal Avalanches: II. A Theoretical and Empirical Investigation of the Driven Case.
The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience,
4(1).
Abstract:
Identification of Criticality in Neuronal Avalanches: II. A Theoretical and Empirical Investigation of the Driven Case
Abstract
. The observation of apparent power laws in neuronal systems has led to the suggestion that the brain is at, or close to, a critical state and may be a self-organised critical system. Within the framework of self-organised criticality a separation of timescales is thought to be crucial for the observation of power-law dynamics and computational models are often constructed with this property. However, this is not necessarily a characteristic of physiological neural networks—external input does not only occur when the network is at rest/a steady state. In this paper we study a simple neuronal network model driven by a continuous external input (i.e. the model does not have an explicit separation of timescales from seeding the system only when in the quiescent state) and analytically tuned to operate in the region of a critical state (it reaches the critical regime exactly in the absence of input—the case studied in the companion paper to this article). The system displays avalanche dynamics in the form of cascades of neuronal firing separated by periods of silence. We observe partial scale-free behaviour in the distribution of avalanche size for low levels of external input. We analytically derive the distributions of waiting times and investigate their temporal behaviour in relation to different levels of external input, showing that the system’s dynamics can exhibit partial long-range temporal correlations. We further show that as the system approaches the critical state by two alternative ‘routes’, different markers of criticality (partial scale-free behaviour and long-range temporal correlations) are displayed. This suggests that signatures of criticality exhibited by a particular system in close proximity to a critical state are dependent on the region in parameter space at which the system (currently) resides.
Abstract.
Börger T, Beaumont NJ, Pendleton L, Boyle KJ, Cooper P, Fletcher S, Haab T, Hanemann M, Hooper TL, Hussain SS, et al (2014). Incorporating ecosystem services in marine planning: the role of valuation.
Marine Policy,
46, 161-170.
Abstract:
Incorporating ecosystem services in marine planning: the role of valuation
This paper scrutinises the use of ecosystem service valuation for marine planning. Lessons are drawn from the development and use of environmental valuation and cost-benefit analysis for policy-making in the US and the UK. Current approaches to marine planning in both countries are presented and the role that ecosystem service valuation could play in this context is outlined. This includes highlighting the steps in the marine planning process where valuation can inform marine planning and policy-making as well as a discussion of methodological challenges to ecosystem service valuation techniques in the context of marine planning. Recommendations to overcome existing barriers are offered based on the synergies and the thinking in the two countries regarding the application of ecosystem service valuation to marine planning. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd.
Abstract.
Taylor TJ, Kiss IZ (2014). Interdependency and hierarchy of exact and approximate epidemic models on networks.
JOURNAL OF MATHEMATICAL BIOLOGY,
69(1), 183-211.
Author URL.
Pollard AS, Paddle JJ, Taylor TJ, Tillyard A (2014). The carbon footprint of acute care: How energy intensive is critical care?.
Public Health,
128(9), 771-776.
Abstract:
The carbon footprint of acute care: How energy intensive is critical care?
Objectives: Climate change has the potential to threaten human health and the environment. Managers in healthcare systems face significant challenges to balance carbon mitigation targets with operational decisions about patient care. Critical care units are major users of energy and hence more evidence is needed on their carbon footprint. Study design: the authors explore a methodology which estimates electricity use and associated carbon emissions within a Critical Care Unit (CCU). Methods: a bottom-up model was developed and calibrated which predicted the electricity consumed and carbon emissions within a CCU based on the type of patients treated and working practices in a case study in Cornwall, UK. Results: the model developed was able to predict the electricity consumed within CCU with an error of 1% when measured against actual meter readings. Just under half the electricity within CCU was used for delivering care to patients and monitoring their condition. Conclusions: a model was developed which accurately predicted the electricity consumed within a CCU based on patient types, medical devices used and working practice. The model could be adapted to enable it to be used within hospitals as part of their planning to meet carbon reduction targets.
Abstract.
Palomino MA, Taylor T, Owen R (2013). Evaluating business intelligence gathering techniques for horizon scanning applications.
Lecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics),
8266 LNAI(PART 2), 350-361.
Abstract:
Evaluating business intelligence gathering techniques for horizon scanning applications
Business intelligence systems exploit futures and foresight techniques to assist decision makers in complex and rapidly changing environments. Such systems combine elements of text and data mining, forecasting and optimisation. We are particularly interested in the development of horizon scanning applications, which involve the systematic search for incipient trends, opportunities, challenges and constraints that might affect the probability of achieving management goals. In this paper, we compare and contrast a couple of case studies that we have carried out in collaboration with Lloyd's of London and RAL Space to evaluate the use of various information retrieval techniques to optimise the collection of Web-based information. Also, we discuss the implementation of potential improvements to our previous work which aim to develop a semi-automated horizon scanning system. © Springer-Verlag 2013.
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Taylor TJ, Hartley C, Simon PL, Kiss IZ, Berthouze L (2013). Identification of Criticality in Neuronal Avalanches: I. A Theoretical Investigation of the Non-driven Case. The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience, 3(1).
Taylor TJ, Hartley C, Simon PL, Kiss IZ, Berthouze L (2013). Identification of criticality in neuronal avalanches: I. A theoretical investigation of the non-driven case.
Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience,
3(1), 1-26.
Abstract:
Identification of criticality in neuronal avalanches: I. A theoretical investigation of the non-driven case
In this paper, we study a simple model of a purely excitatory neural network that, by construction, operates at a critical point. This model allows us to consider various markers of criticality and illustrate how they should perform in a finitesize system. By calculating the exact distribution of avalanche sizes, we are able to show that, over a limited range of avalanche sizes which we precisely identify, the distribution has scale free properties but is not a power law. This suggests that it would be inappropriate to dismiss a system as not being critical purely based on an inability to rigorously fit a power law distribution as has been recently advocated. In assessing whether a system, especially a finite-size one, is critical it is thus important to consider other possible markers. We illustrate one of these by showing the divergence of susceptibility as the critical point of the system is approached. Finally, we provide evidence that power laws may underlie other observables of the system that may be more amenable to robust experimental assessment. © 2013 T.J. Taylor et al.; licensee Springer.
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Pollard AS, Taylor TJ, Fleming LE, Stahl-Timmins W, Depledge MH, Osborne NJ (2013). Mainstreaming carbon management in healthcare systems: a bottom-up modeling approach.
Environ Sci Technol,
47(2), 678-686.
Abstract:
Mainstreaming carbon management in healthcare systems: a bottom-up modeling approach.
Increasing greenhouse gas emissions threaten human health and the environment. In response, healthcare managers face significant challenges in balancing operational decisions about patient care with carbon mitigation targets. We explore a bottom-up modeling framework to aid in the decision-making for both carbon and cost in healthcare, using data from a case study in Cornwall, UK. A model was built and run for secondary healthcare, specifically outpatient clinics, theater lists, beds, and diagnostic facilities. Five scenarios were tested: business-as-usual; service expansion; site closure; water temperature reduction; and theater optimization. The estimated emissions from secondary healthcare in Cornwall ran to 5787 T CO(2)eq with patient travel adding 2215 T CO(2)eq. Closing selected sites would have reduced this by 4% (261 T CO(2)eq), a reduction less than the resulting increases in patient transport emissions. Reducing hot water temperatures by 5 °C and improving theater usage would lower the footprint by 0.7% (44 T CO(2)eq) and 0.08% (5 T CO(2)eq), respectively. We consider bottom-up models important tools in the process of estimating and modeling the carbon footprint of healthcare. For the carbon reduction targets of the healthcare sector to be met, the use of these bottom-up models in decision making and forward planning is pivotal.
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Author URL.
Palomino M, Taylor T, McBride G, Mortimer H, Owen R, Depledge M (2013). Optimising Web-Based Information Retrieval Methods for Horizon Scanning Using Relevance Feedback. Federated Conference on Computer Science and Information Systems (FedCSIS 2013), 1139-1146.
Fosten J, Morley B, Taylor T (2012). Dynamic misspecification in the environmental Kuznets curve: Evidence from CO <inf>2</inf> and SO <inf>2</inf> emissions in the United Kingdom.
Ecological Economics,
76, 25-33.
Abstract:
Dynamic misspecification in the environmental Kuznets curve: Evidence from CO 2 and SO 2 emissions in the United Kingdom
This study looks at the behaviour of emissions when in disequilibrium with respect to the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) relationship. We use the non-linear threshold cointegration and error correction methodology and a long dataset beginning in 1830, in an application to the United Kingdom. There is significant evidence that, not only does the 'inverse-U' shape hold between per capita CO 2 and SO 2 emissions and GDP per capita, but we also find that temporary disequilibrium from the long-run EKC is corrected in an asymmetric fashion. This may be due to the historical pressure of environmental regulation in the UK to reduce emissions that are higher than permitted. However further analysis suggests that technological change can partially account for the asymmetric adjustment. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.
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Kiss IZ, Berthouze L, Taylor TJ, Simon PL (2012). Modelling approaches for simple dynamic networks and applications to disease transmission models. Proceedings of the Royal Society A, 468(2141), 1332-1355.
Palomino M, Taylor T, McBride G, Owen R (2012). Web-based horizon scanning: Recent developments with application to health technology assessment. Business Informatics, 3(25), 139-159.
Aikman D, Barrett P, Kapadia S, King M, Proudman J, Taylor T, de Weymarn I, Yates T (2011). Uncertainty in macroeconomic policy-making: art or science?.
PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY A-MATHEMATICAL PHYSICAL AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES,
369(1956), 4798-4817.
Author URL.
Taylor T, Longo A (2010). Valuing algal bloom in the Black Sea Coast of Bulgaria: a choice experiments approach.
J Environ Manage,
91(10), 1963-1971.
Abstract:
Valuing algal bloom in the Black Sea Coast of Bulgaria: a choice experiments approach.
Increased interest in water quality in coastal and marine areas stemming from the Water Framework Directive and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive has led to important questions in relation to policies that address nutrient loadings. This paper presents the results from a choice experiment study to assess the recreational damage associated with algal blooms caused by nutrients flows into Varna Bay, Bulgaria. Varna Bay is an important beach destination on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. Algal bloom events have been experienced frequently in the area. A choice experiment questionnaire was developed and applied in the Varna Bay area to assess the extent to which the quantity of algal blooms and the duration of the bloom affect recreational activities. The amount of bloom was found to be important, as respondents were on average willing to pay a one off tax of 18.97 Leva (9.73 euro) for a program that provides beaches free from algal blooms.
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Markandya A, Arnold S, Cassinelli M, Taylor T (2009). "Protecting coastal zones in the Mediterranean: an economic and regulatory analysis". Journal of Coastal Conservation, 1-15.
Taylor T, Ortiz RA (2009). Impacts of climate change on domestic tourism in the UK: a panel data estimation.
Tourism Economics,
15(4), 803-812.
Abstract:
Impacts of climate change on domestic tourism in the UK: a panel data estimation
Climate change is likely to have a significant impact on a number of key economic sectors, including tourism. The authors employ panel data techniques on regional tourist and climatic data in the UK to estimate the influence of temperature, precipitation and sunny conditions on domestic tourism. Significant impacts are found, including lagged relationships. The model is then used to estimate the impact of the hot weather of summer 2003 on domestic tourism in the UK, finding a positive impact on revenues ranging between £14.79 million and £30.32 million.
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Hunt A, Taylor T (2009). To adapt or not to adapt? Towards local costing of climate change impacts for decision making in adaptation. IOP Conference Series Earth and Environmental Science, 6(32).
Markandya A, Taylor T, Longo A, Murty MN, Murty S, Dhavala K (2008). Counting the cost of vulture decline-An appraisal of the human health and other benefits of vultures in India.
Ecological Economics,
67(2), 194-204.
Abstract:
Counting the cost of vulture decline-An appraisal of the human health and other benefits of vultures in India
Widespread use of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) diclofenac to treat livestock has resulted in dramatic declines in the populations of vultures across India. This has become an issue of considerable concern as vultures are a keystone species and their decline has a range of socio-economic, as well as cultural and biodiversity impacts. In this paper, we review these impacts and estimate in detail the economic cost of one of them: the human health impacts of the vulture decline. Livestock carcasses provide the main food supply for vultures, and are also eaten by dogs. Dogs are the main source of rabies in humans in India, and their populations have increased substantially in parallel with the vulture decline. The potential human health impact of rabies associated with the vulture decline is found to be significant. This, and a wide range of other impacts suggest that significant resources should be put into (1) testing of pharmaceutical products to ensure that similar situations are not repeated, (2) helping vulture populations to recover through the use of alternative drugs to diclofenac that are of low toxicity to vultures, and (3) through conservation breeding programmes. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Markandya A, Arnold S, Cassinelli M, Taylor T (2008). Protecting coastal zones in the Mediterranean: an economic and regulatory analysis.
Journal of Coastal Conservation,
12(3), 145-159.
Abstract:
Protecting coastal zones in the Mediterranean: an economic and regulatory analysis
This paper examines existing measures taken to protect the coastal zones of the Mediterranean Sea and assesses their success. A summary of the main pressures facing this region is given, followed by an analysis of the legislation covering coastal zone development in ten countries: Algeria, Croatia, Egypt, France, Israel, Italy, Malta, Spain, Tunisia and Turkey. The paper finds that not all of these States have legislation specifically covering coastal zones, but there is concern in all areas that existing legislation is not working. The costs and benefits of controlling coastal development are examined. Firstly, a literature review of valuation studies identifies a range of values placed on the developed and undeveloped coastline for both users and local property owners. These values were then used in a model to evaluate policy options to control development of a stretch of coastline. The model indicates that a stricter control regime of coastal development may provide significant benefits. © Springer Science + Business Media B.V. 2009.
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Von Blottnitz H, Rabl A, Boiadjiev D, Taylor T, Arnold S (2006). Damage costs of nitrogen fertilizer in Europe and their internalization.
Journal of Environmental Planning and Management,
49(3), 413-433.
Abstract:
Damage costs of nitrogen fertilizer in Europe and their internalization
This paper estimates the environmental impacts and damage costs ('external costs') of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer and discusses options for reducing these impacts, including their consequences for farmers and for producers of fertilizer. The damage costs of the fertilizer life cycle that could be estimated are large, about 0.3€/kgN (compared to the current market price of about 0.5€/kgN); much of that is due to global warming by N2O and CO2 emissions during fertilizer production and N2O emissions from fertilized fields. Policy options for internalizing these costs are discussed, and the consequences of reduced fertilizer input on crop yield are explored. If the damage costs were internalized by a pollution tax or tradable permits that are auctioned by the government, the economic consequences would be heavy, with a large revenue loss for farmers. However, if it is internalized by tradable permits that are given out free, the revenue loss for farmers is small. The loss for fertilizer producers increases linearly with the amount of external cost that is internalized, by contrast to the loss for farmers which increases quadratically but is very small for a damage cost of 0.3 €/kgN. Expressed as a change in the fertilizer-dependent part of the farmers' revenue (crop yield × crop price - fertilizer used × fertilizer price), the decrease is less than 0.5% for most crops; the losses are larger only for crops with low €/ha revenue. Averaged over wheat, barley, potatoes, sugar beet and rapeseed, the loss to farmers is about 0.1% in the UK and 0.4% in Sweden. The revenue loss for fertilizer producers is larger, about 8% in the UK and 14% in Sweden. © 2006 University of Newcastle upon Tyne.
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