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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Ederson Augusto Zanetti1, 2, Elton Bicalho do Carmo3and Lincoln Junior Bicalho3
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DOI:10.17265/2162-5298/2026.02.003
1. PreventX AI, Washington, DC 20036, USA 2. Centre for Environmental Health Research, PreventX AI, Washington, DC 20036, USA 3. Software Engineering Department, University of Maryland Global Campus, Adelphi, MD 20706, USA
The Nature Score framework is an innovative, evidence-based tool developed to evaluate the preventive health potential of natural environments, including parks, farmland, pastures, agricultural land, forestlands, and urban green spaces, in mitigating chronic diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders. The framework systematically assesses six core dimensions—Availability, Equipment, Sanity, Accessibility, Safety, and Integration—using specific, measurable indicators, such as green space per capita, air and water quality, noise exposure, infrastructure quality, and community connectivity. Each factor is quantified to generate a composite score ranging from 0 to 850, with higher scores (Nule, ≥850) reflecting environments optimally aligned for chronic disease prevention, and lower scores (Eminent, 0-300) indicating heightened health risks. By linking environmental and social attributes to health outcomes, the Nature Score identifies potential vulnerabilities and provides evidence-based mitigation strategies, including urban planning improvements, lifestyle interventions, and community engagement initiatives. Integrating quantitative metrics, qualitative assessments, and cultural considerations, the framework offers actionable guidance for policymakers, urban planners, and individuals to foster healthier, more resilient populations. Overall, the Nature Score underscores the critical role of accessible, safe, and well-managed natural environments in promoting physical activity, stress reduction, and long-term public health.
Green spaces, chronic disease prevention, environmental health assessment, Nature Score, urban planning, public health metrics.
Ederson Augusto Zanetti. Elton Bicalho do Carmo and Lincoln Junior Bicalho.Nature Score (0-850): A Comprehensive Framework for Assessing Green Areas Chronic Disease Preventive Health Potential.Journal of Environmental Science and Engineering A 15 (2026) 50-57
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