Socio-demographic correlates of nature connection: An Australia-wide study

A large body of literature illustrates that nature connection is associated with both higher wellbeing and a greater likelihood of displaying more pro-environmental behaviours. This indicates that higher nature connection is an important leverage point for sustainability. It is important to understand correlates of nature connection to improve both individual well-being, and the health of the planet. This study is the first survey to explore nature connection and its variation across diverse geographies and environments at a national-level in Australia. We aim to understand the overall level of nature connection in Australia, the socio-demographic correlates of nature connection and the barriers to connecting with nature. The distributions of nature connection according to two different instruments: the CN-12 and the INS indicate that nature connection is relatively high in Australia. Nature connection is higher for older Australians, individuals who identify as female, individuals who grew up in rural or regional area, those who work part-time or are self-employed, Indigenous Australians and those who speak a language other than English. Being time poor is the most common barrier to engaging with nature, with individuals on higher incomes being more likely to identify this barrier. Other barriers, such as lack of access, cost of access and safety concerns, were more likely to be raised by people on lower incomes. Our research identifies numerous structural barriers to engaging with nature that have global relevance and indicate the need for socio-ecological policy reforms. Policy implications. Our research points to valuable policy levers such as increasing green space in urban areas, enhancing opportunities for meaningful interactions in nature and addressing structural inequalities to enhance access to nature for certain groups. Doing so will help create positive change for both people and planet. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.