An international study highlights the uneven distribution of nature connectedness and exposure across socioeconomic and demographic groups worldwide. Led by Anglia Ruskin University, the research underscores the need to break down barriers to equitable access to natural environments.
In an eye-opening international study, a team of over 250 researchers from more than 60 countries revealed that socioeconomic and demographic factors significantly influence people’s connection and exposure to nature. Led by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) and published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, the study evaluated responses from 56,968 adults aged 18 to 99 across 65 national groups.
Key Findings
The study found that higher levels of nature connectedness and exposure were consistently associated with being female, older, financially secure, residing in rural areas, being in a committed relationship, having higher education and belonging to the racial majority in their country.
In contrast, individuals from racial minorities and those with lower financial security reported significantly lower levels of connectedness and exposure to natural environments.
A Global Perspective
Countries like Nepal, Iran and South Africa topped the Nature Connectedness Scale, which measures individuals’ feelings of unity with the natural world.
On the other end, Israel, Japan and Spain ranked the lowest. The United Kingdom placed 59th, but fared better on the Nature Exposure Scale — ranking 31st among 65 nations — indicating more frequent contact with nature around homes, workplaces and during recreational activities.
“Spending time in a natural environment can provide a number of really important benefits,” lead author Viren Swami, a professor of social psychology at ARU, said in a news release. “My previous research has shown how being in green spaces, ‘blue’ environments, such as by rivers or the coast, and even snowy landscapes can improve different facets of psychological well-being and mental health, and of course there are physical health benefits from spending time outdoors in nature.”
The study’s broad global scope and multi-language groups, including separated data for English and French speakers in Canada, allow for an in-depth analysis of nature connectedness and exposure across diverse cultural contexts.
Barriers to Access
“The evidence that being in nature is good for you is undeniable, but crucially this new study shows that exposure to nature and levels of connectedness to nature are not enjoyed equally by different nations or across different social groups,” Swami added.
Barriers to accessing nature, such as financial barriers, lack of education and racial disparities, were highlighted as significant obstacles.
These barriers contribute to the unequal distribution of the mental and physical health benefits derived from nature. Whether due to financial constraints, urban living conditions or a sense of exclusion in natural settings, marginalized groups face more challenges in reaping these benefits.
“Unfortunately, barriers to accessing nature exist in countries across the world and it is important these barriers are broken down to allow people from all backgrounds to access and enjoy the benefits of natural spaces,” Swami added.
Implications for Policy and Health
This research presents a compelling case for policymakers to address these inequities by improving access to natural environments for all social groups. Initiatives could include developing more green spaces in urban areas, creating inclusive nature programs and enhancing public awareness about the importance of nature for overall well-being.
The study underscores the profound need for a collective effort to make nature and its numerous benefits accessible to everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status or demographic identity. Querying the status of natural connectedness and exposure can pave the way for transformational changes in public health and societal well-being.
By bridging the gap, we can ensure that the therapeutic and rejuvenating qualities of the natural world are a shared heritage, not a privileged luxury.