Urban ecology and urban ecosystems: understanding the links to human health and well-being

► I distinguish between the ecology of cities and ecology in cities. ► I discuss appropriate scales of analysis of the relationship between ecosystem services and human health and well-being. ► Great inequalities in the relationship between environment and health are to be expected across any urban area. ► Clear physical and mental health benefits accrue from the use of urban greenspaces. ► Urban governance has a major influence on the response to opportunities offered by nature in cities.