Empower Your Patients with Blue Zones Certification
Enroll Now

Rachel Pincumbe

Rachel is a Blue Zones Project Manager and works with communities to advance their built environment. She has worked on projects including parks and recreation planning, trail planning and design, playground design, streetscape design, and other community public space design.

Lost in Transition: The Health Impact of the Loss of Public Spaces for Teens

By August 26, 2025

The built environment is a key social determinant of health that critically impacts one’s physical, mental, and social well-being. When discussing the built environment, we often think of public spaces such as parks, community gathering spots, downtown squares, and recreation facilities. These areas give people access to green space and places to exercise, as well as connect them with nature, encourage social cohesion, and create a sense of belonging. Public spaces often serve as what sociologists call “third spaces.” These are places outside of home, work, or school where people can relax, socialize, and participate in their communities. Unlike…