| Overall Rating | Gold |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 66.65 |
| Liaison | Austin Sutherland |
| Submission Date | Aug. 9, 2021 |
University of Pennsylvania
IN-47: Innovation A
| Status | Score | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
|
0.50 / 0.50 |
Name or title of the innovative policy, practice, program, or outcome:
A brief description of the innovative policy, practice, program, or outcome that outlines how credit criteria are met and any positive measurable outcomes associated with the innovation:
With support from the Office of the Provost, Penn Center for Public Health Initiatives (CPHI), Facilities and Real Estate Services (FRES), and other campus partners, Penn has launched a Nature Rx program. The idea behind Nature Rx is writing prescriptions to be out in nature, since research has shown that time spent in nature can have a positive impact on our health and well-being. Our hope is to engage Penn students, faculty, and staff to go out in nature to reduce stress and anxiety, increase energy, and have protective, restorative time. This program is based on a successful model from Cornell University.
While the idea is to give out "prescriptions," anyone can recommend nature to a friend or colleague. We have many campus partners that will be interacting with the Penn community who will be providing prescriptions as a reminder that spending time outside is a free and impactful way to feel relief. Penn provides an interactive map showing local green spaces and has partner programs such as weekly wellness walks that offer easy ways to get outside.
A letter of affirmation from an individual with relevant expertise or a press release or publication featuring the innovation :
The website URL where information about the innovation is available :
Additional documentation to support the submission:
Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
The information presented here is self-reported. While AASHE staff review portions of all STARS reports and institutions are welcome to seek additional forms of review, the data in STARS reports are not verified by AASHE. If you believe any of this information is erroneous or inconsistent with credit criteria, please review the process for inquiring about the information reported by an institution or simply email your inquiry to stars@aashe.org.