The Climate Question Can we build better cities for mental health and the climate?
Oct 13, 2025
Houssam Elokda, an urban planner with Happy Cities, discusses how the design of our cities impacts both mental health and the climate. He highlights that our urban spaces can be optimized to lower stress and reduce emissions. Car-centric travel increases stress, while walking and cycling foster social interactions. Houssam introduces innovative techniques like passive cooling found in medieval Cairo to create sustainable, comfortable environments. He emphasizes the need for systemic changes to make eco-friendly living the norm.
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Social Contact Drives Urban Wellbeing
- Strong social relationships are the biggest predictor of mental wellbeing in cities.
- Walking, biking or short transit walks increase casual public interactions that boost community ties.
Prioritise Active Travel Infrastructure
- Make active travel the easiest, safest option by building protected, convenient infrastructure.
- Prioritise cycling and walking to reduce stress and improve mental health while cutting emissions.
Cycling Culture In The Netherlands
- Anna describes bustling, pleasant cycle routes in The Hague with families and greenery.
- She highlights segregated lanes and predictable journey times that make cycling relaxing.