University of Derby – PARTNER FEATURE

One of the leading research teams at the University of Derby is the Nature Connectedness
Research Group. A research group focused on exploring the idea of Nature connectedness and
seeking to better understand the relationship between people and the rest of Nature. The group is also leading the UK’s Nature Connection Network and backing the ‘It’s Time to ReWild Yourself Campaign’.

Why is Nature Connectedness important?

Despite its positive effects on our well-being, humans' relationship with Nature is broken and needs to be addressed. Nature connectedness is a measurable psychological construct that moves beyond contact with Nature and focuses on an individual’s sense of their relationship with the natural world.

The Nature Connectedness Research Group was the first to focus on this area and works closely with other organisations in the field, including Natural England, the National Trust, the RSPB, the Wildlife Trusts, and other national Nature conservation NGOs (non-governmental organisations), and their research has been honoured in the UK’s 100 Best Breakthroughs list, compiled by Universities UK, for its pioneering work.

Initiatives

Some initiatives that have sprung from their research include:

30 Days Wild
Getting involved in the design and evaluation of 30 Days Wild, a campaign from Wildlife Trust’s aiming to get people to engage with Nature every day each June. The evaluations found that those involved had sustained increases in happiness, health, connection to Nature and pro-nature behaviours.

Pathways to Nature Connectedness

Developing the Pathways to Nature Connectedness, which provides a route for people to
develop a new relationship with the natural world. These five pathways are:
● Senses – tuning in to Nature through the senses
● Emotion – feeling alive through the emotions and feelings Nature brings
● Beauty – noticing Nature’s beauty
● Meaning – how Nature brings meaning to our lives
● Compassion – caring and taking action for Nature

These pathways might sound familiar, they are the foundation of our It’s Time to ReWild Yourself Campaign! Learn more and get involved by exploring our activity books.

If you would like to learn more about the Nature Connectedness Research Group handbook invites we recommend you to look over the Nature Connectedness handbook, which offers a summary of Nature connection research and application, a closer look to the Pathways and examples of activities and initiatives that support and develop Nature connection.

You can also find further information by visiting the Nature Connectedness Research Group
website.