Nature connectedness defines how humans relate emotionally, spiritually, and psychologically to the natural world. A groundbreaking global study has revealed a surprising divide — the United Kingdom is among the least connected to nature, while Nepal ranks the highest. This difference reflects not only lifestyle and urbanisation but also cultural and spiritual traditions that shape our bond with wildlife.
What Is “Nature Connectedness”?
Nature connectedness is not just about spending time outdoors — it measures how deeply people feel part of the natural world. It includes emotional connection, identity, empathy for wildlife, and the belief that humans are part of nature’s ecosystem. Studies by the University of Derby and the Nature Connectedness Network show that stronger bonds with nature increase happiness, reduce anxiety, and boost support for environmental protection.
Global Findings
According to a global survey covering over 60 countries and 56,000 participants, Nepal ranks first in nature connectedness, while the United Kingdom ranks near the bottom. Other countries with low scores include Canada, Germany, Israel, Japan, and Spain. These rankings highlight a clear pattern — wealthier, highly urbanised nations tend to feel more distant from nature, even when surrounded by green spaces.
Why Nepal Leads
Nepal’s cultural and spiritual heritage deeply values harmony between humans and nature. From Himalayan forests to sacred rivers, natural landscapes are intertwined with faith and daily life. Traditional beliefs teach respect for animals and forests, making conservation a moral duty. Nepal’s biodiversity — from Bengal tigers and red pandas to snow leopards — thrives in ecosystems protected both by government action and local reverence.
Why the UK Struggles
The United Kingdom, despite its national parks and conservation efforts, scores among the world’s lowest in emotional connection to nature. Experts attribute this to urbanisation, digital lifestyles, and a disconnect between daily life and wildlife. Many Britons live in cities with limited green space or experience nature only through screens. Even when biodiversity is present, emotional bonds remain weak.
Socioeconomic and Cultural Factors
- Urbanisation: High population density and limited access to wild areas weaken everyday contact with nature.
- Modern lifestyle: Time spent online and indoors reduces opportunities to engage with wildlife.
- Spiritual values: Countries with stronger spiritual traditions (like Nepal) often maintain cultural respect for nature and animals.
- Income and education: Wealthier nations sometimes view nature as recreation rather than relationship.
The Role of Wildlife
Wildlife plays a crucial role in how people connect with nature. Birdsong, animal encounters, or even observing insects can awaken a sense of belonging. Studies show that exposure to biodiversity enhances wellbeing and environmental empathy. Yet in modern cities, wildlife is often invisible — replaced by concrete and noise.
Impacts of Low Nature Connectedness
- Weakened conservation support: When people feel detached from nature, they are less likely to support wildlife protection policies.
- Mental health decline: Lack of contact with nature increases stress, depression, and social isolation.
- Loss of biodiversity awareness: Without emotional engagement, ecosystems become abstract concepts instead of living realities.
- Generational gap: Younger generations may grow up disconnected, seeing nature as “elsewhere.”
What Can Be Done?
Experts suggest restoring connection through education, community engagement, and everyday exposure. In the UK, initiatives such as urban gardens, wildlife corridors, citizen science projects, and eco-education in schools can rebuild the lost bond. Encouraging direct experiences — hearing birds, planting trees, observing local species — reawakens empathy for wildlife.
Learning from Nepal
Nepal’s example shows that connection grows from meaning and tradition. Integrating spirituality, respect, and coexistence with nature creates a powerful emotional foundation for conservation. Local communities participate directly in protecting forests, rivers, and species, turning conservation into a shared identity rather than an obligation.
Wildlife and Wellbeing
Research links exposure to wildlife with improved wellbeing. The diversity of birds, mammals, and insects provides psychological benefits — reducing anxiety and enhancing life satisfaction. Nature’s sounds, from rustling leaves to the hum of bees, have measurable calming effects. Urban planners increasingly recognise biodiversity as an essential part of healthy living environments.
The Future of Nature Connectedness
The challenge for modern societies is to restore what has been lost. Technology, while often blamed, can also help — through virtual wildlife experiences, eco-apps, and storytelling that inspire real-world action. The key lies in balance: using innovation to bring people closer to nature, not further away.
Conclusion
The story of nature connectedness is more than statistics — it is a reflection of humanity’s evolving relationship with the wild. Nepal stands as a reminder that true harmony with nature comes from cultural respect and everyday experience. For countries like the UK, rediscovering that bond may be the next great conservation challenge.
Ultimately, protecting wildlife begins not only in forests and oceans, but within hearts that still remember what it feels like to belong to the living world.
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