Narrated by Barbra Bogaev and Jean Snedegar (2006). From the time he wrote ‘Walden – Life in the Woods’ philosopher Henry David Thoreau understood the restorative value of trees to the human soul. More than 100 years later researchers are discovering that a pleasurable walk among trees and green space can calm an active child, refresh a tired mind, and make all of us feel better. Producer Jean Snedegar speaks with University of Michigan environmental psychologist and researcher Stephen Kaplan about his work on the effect of nature on people’s relationships and health. She travels to Chicago, where she follows a remarkable research project that aims to provide an urban forest to a housing project, with the aim of reducing crime and violence as well as to promote a sense of community and well-being. There, she speaks with psychologist and researcher Frances Kuo, whose work has led to significant policy changes in Chicago’s urban planning. Urban planners have now embraced a green approach to streetscape design. So much so, that they have created a prairie twelve stories above the street, on top of City Hall.

The Soundprint documentary series features the best work of top radio producers. The award winning documentaries are renowned for drawing the listener into the story with compelling interviews, authentic voices and rich sound. From memoirs to science, health and popular culture, Soundprint creates a powerful experience the listener will not soon forget.