Abstract

In sustainability science calls are increasing for humanity to (re-)connect with nature, yet no systematic synthesis of the empirical literature on human-nature connection (HNC) exists. We reviewed 475 publications on HNC and found that most research has concentrated on individuals at local scales, often leaving 'nature' undefined. Cluster analysis identified three subgroups of publications: first, HNC as mind, dominated by the use of psychometric scales, second, HNC as experience, characterised by observation and qualitative analysis; and third, HNC as place, emphasising place attachment and reserve visitation. To address the challenge of connecting humanity with nature, future HNC scholarship must pursue cross-fertilization of methods and approaches, extend research beyond individuals, local scales, and Western societies, and increase guidance for sustainability transformations.

Published in

Current Opinion in Environmental Sustainability
2017, Volume: 26-27, pages: 106-113
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCI LTD

SLU Authors

• Raymond, Christopher

  • Department of Landscape Architecture, Planning and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

Associated SLU-program

Nature experiences and health


UKÄ Subject classification

Applied Psychology
Landscape Architecture
Ecology


Publication identifier

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cosust.2017.05.005

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/93366