New research led by Dr Dongbing Li, Associate Professor in Green Chemicals and Energy at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), has uncovered the scientific factors that determine a forest’s restorative power, offering valuable guidance for the development of forest wellness destinations and urban green spaces.
The study compared four representative forest types in China, combining environmental measurements with eye-tracking technology and participants’ aesthetic evaluations. The findings showed that forests with balanced vegetation structure and greater visual openness—such as lacebark pine and Chinese red pine forests—provided the most positive experiences, while dense and visually monotonous forests could evoke feelings of oppression.
“Our research demonstrates that the therapeutic value of a forest depends on the scientific balance between its tree, shrub and ground vegetation layers,” said Dr Li. “A well-designed forest environment can enhance both visual appeal and microclimate comfort, ultimately benefiting human wellbeing.”
The findings provide an evidence-based framework for planning forest wellness sites, hiking routes and urban parks. The research team is now investigating how plant-emitted compounds, such as phytoncides, and forest environments influence physiological indicators of stress, including cortisol levels and heart rate, to further understand the health benefits of spending time in nature.
Published on 10 June 2026