The Significance of National Parks
In today’s fast-paced world, it is no surprise that deforestation, loss of cultural heritage, and even mental health have all been neglected. In recent years, it is evident that these issues are exacerbating. Every year, the Earth loses an average of 38,610 square miles of land, cultural heritage is destroyed in the name of “expansion,” and millions of adults and children nationwide experience some sort of mental health crisis. However, one solution has been proven to reverse the effects of all three: national parks. National parks are a great way for nations to preserve their healthy and culturally rich land. Visitors of national parks have also seen positive impacts on their mental health after visiting them.
National parks support biodiversity, ecosystems, and life in general. This helps reduce the impact of natural disasters and other issues within the environment. For these reasons, national parks have long been protected in the United States. The United States has been reducing greenhouse emissions and conserving water and energy to reduce their carbon footprint. Reducing the country’s carbon footprint would immensely help in preserving the environmental health of national parks. In addition, these parks also help power America. From transporting water between cities to generating power for citizens, national parks do them all. For example, Yellowstone’s supervolcano is used as a source for geothermal energy.
Along with environmental benefits, national parks are also a historic cultural gem. Most national parks in the United States today come from indigenous tribes. These parks date back to the early years of America. Organizations, such as the National Park Foundation (NPF). help protect and preserve this history in our modern world.
National Parks also play a big role in mental health. They provide acres of land for people to use. Statistics show that a five minute walk in nature improves one’s mood and self-esteem. In today’s hectic, fast-paced world, there is nothing more relaxing than taking a silent walk around the park. Studies have even shown that people tend to become more productive after physical exercise and experience more life satisfaction.
In summary, national parks are a very important part of society. They help combat environmental issues, preserve cultural roots, and assist people in their mental well-being. It is essential that governments continue to protect the health and biodiversity of national parks so that people have access to the multitude of benefits that these natural reserves have to offer.
