A comprehensive international research study involving 56,968 adults aged between 18 and 99 has revealed that the extent of one’s connection to nature and exposure to natural environments correlates with various socioeconomic and demographic characteristics.
Those with higher connection scores tended to be female, older, financially better off, residing in rural areas, in committed relationships, possessing higher levels of education, and belonging to the racial majority in their respective countries.
The study, published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, was conducted under the guidance of Professor Viren Swami from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), along with over 250 researchers from more than 60 countries worldwide.
The Connectedness to Nature Scale invites participants to evaluate statements like “I often feel a sense of unity with the natural environment around me,” “I deeply understand how my actions impact the natural world,” and “I frequently feel like a part of the web of life.”
Responses from certain countries were categorized into different languages—for instance, English and French inputs from Canada—resulting in 65 national categories. Nepal, Iran, and South Africa ranked as the top three in nature connectedness, while Israel (63rd), Japan (64th), and Spain (65th) ranked the lowest. The UK placed 59th out of 65 countries assessed.
In terms of the Nature Exposure Scale, which gauges people’s interaction with nature in their neighborhoods and workplaces, as well as during leisure time, the UK performed better. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Lithuania led this scale, with all top 10 nations—except for French-speaking Canadians—being European. The UK ranked 31st out of 65, while Lebanon, South Korea, and Brazil were the lowest three.
Professor Viren Swami, the lead author and a Professor of Social Psychology at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in England, stated: “Spending time in nature offers numerous vital benefits.
“My earlier studies have demonstrated that being in green spaces, ‘blue’ environments like rivers or coastal areas, and even snowy terrains can enhance various aspects of psychological well-being and mental health. There are also physical health benefits associated with being outdoors in nature.
“While it’s clear that spending time in nature is beneficial, this new research highlights that the experience of nature and the degree of connection to it vary significantly among different countries and social groups.
“The strong correlation with financial stability, education levels, and being part of the racial majority in a specific country reflects ongoing socioeconomic disparities in access to natural environments. Racial minorities may also perceive and experience natural spaces differently, potentially affecting their sense of belonging, as well as their attitudes toward and desire to engage with nature.
“Sadly, barriers to accessing nature persist globally, and it is crucial to dismantle these obstacles to ensure that individuals from all backgrounds can benefit from natural spaces.”
