The natural world is an incredible wonder that inspires and takes care of us. It underpins our economy, our society, our very existence. Our forests, rivers, oceans, and soils provide us with the food we eat, the air we breathe and the water we irrigate our crops with. We also rely on them for numerous other goods and services related to our health, happiness and prosperity.

The physical health benefits of spending time in nature are proven – from improving blood pressure and enhancing brain activity, to promoting a better quality of sleep, reducing anxiety and lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease.

People who feel a strong personal connection with nature also tend to have a strong sense of personal wellbeing and good mental health. Researchers use the concept of ‘nature connectedness’ – or the personal sense of feeling emotionally connected with the natural world – to help understand the connections between nature and wellbeing.