How Green Spaces May Influence Birth Weight

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The environment where a mother lives during pregnancy can have a lasting impact on a child’s health. 

 

Beyond access to healthcare and nutrition, emerging evidence suggests that everyday surroundings, including access to green spaces, may play a meaningful role in early life outcomes such as birth weight. 

 

Birth weight is a widely used indicator of newborn health. Babies born with low birth weight face higher risks of complications during infancy and may be more vulnerable to long-term health and developmental challenges. As a result, understanding the factors that support healthy birth outcomes has become an important area of research. 

 

What Research Suggests 

 

A 2016 report by the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe highlights growing evidence linking exposure to green spaces with improved birth outcomes. Studies reviewed in the report found that pregnant women living closer to green areas, such as parks and landscaped environments, were more likely to give birth to babies with healthier birth weights. Residential greenness, often measured through vegetation density, has also been associated with positive effects on fetal development. 

 

Proximity to green spaces appears to matter. Evidence suggests that greater distance from parks and natural environments may be linked to higher risks of preterm birth and shorter gestational periods. While some findings show variations depending on location and study conditions, the overall trend points to the potential benefits of accessible greenery for expectant mothers. 

A child flying a kite at the Acacia Park in Acacia Estates, Taguig City.

Why Green Spaces May Help 

 

Several factors may help explain this relationship. Green spaces are known to reduce exposure to air pollution and noise, both of which can negatively affect pregnancy outcomes. They also provide environments that encourage light physical activity, such as walking, which is beneficial during pregnancy. Equally important is their effect on mental well-being. Natural surroundings have been shown to reduce stress levels, helping create a calmer environment that supports both maternal and fetal health. 

 

While green spaces are not a substitute for proper medical care, they can complement healthy lifestyle practices during pregnancy. Access to nearby parks, gardens, and tree-lined walkways can make it easier for expectant mothers to stay active, relax, and maintain overall well-being throughout pregnancy. 

 

Bringing This Into Urban Living 

 

This perspective has influenced the design approach of DMCI Homes. Across its developments, the company has set aside 47 hectares for landscaped open spaces, nearly twice the size of Quezon Memorial Circle national park in Quezon City, to give residents regular access to greenery within urban areas. 

 

This focus on outdoor environments has received recognition. The Atherton was acknowledged during National Bike Day 2025 for promoting active living, while Moncello Crest in Benguet received a GantimPALA 2025 Merit Award from the Philippine Association of Landscape Architects. 

Kalea Heights (Artist’s Illustration)

Future developments continue in the same direction. 

 

Projects such as One Delta Terraces, The Valeron Tower, and The Calinea Tower will include vertical gardens and green pockets. In Cebu City, Kalea Heights will dedicate 3.6 hectares to landscaped open spaces, offering a more open and balanced environment within a growing urban area. 

 

Beyond health, green spaces also help build stronger communities. They create space for neighbors to meet, families to spend time together, and children to play. 

 

In DMCI Homes condominiums, these shared outdoor areas support everyday living in a way that brings together well-being, connection, and community. 

 

DMCI Homes is the country’s first Quadruple A real estate developer, with projects in Mega Manila, Baguio City, Tuba in Benguet, San Juan in Batangas, Boracay, Cebu City, and Davao City. Each of its properties is built with world-standard craftsmanship borne from D.M. Consunji Inc.’s over 70 years of expertise in the construction and development industry.   

  

To learn more about DMCI Homes’ pre-selling and ready for occupancy projects, units for lease, and special promos, call (632) 5324-8888. You can also visit leasing.dmcihomes.com to know more about opportunities in leasing and rent-to-own programs of DMCI Homes. News and other updates are also posted on the company’s official website and social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube.