Afforestation and urban crime in Bogotá

The relationship between vegetation and crime has been the subject of recent research among urban scholars. While vegetation may have positive effects on human health, it could be related to a greater propensity for certain... [ view full abstract ]

The relationship between vegetation and crime has been the subject of recent research among urban scholars. While vegetation may have positive effects on human health, it could be related to a greater propensity for certain criminal activities. Using census and georeferenced data of trees, we explored the relationship between the process of afforestation and criminality in Bogotá-Colombia. Results from econometric estimations suggest a negative and significant relationship between the afforestation activity and crime, measured as the reported number of robberies. These effects are significant both temporally and spatially. Existing literature on this topic has focused on case studies in developed countries. This study is the first effort to quantify this relationship in an emerging country. We discuss implications of our findings for city planning and public policies aimed to reduce urban crime.