Global synthesis reveals heterogeneous changes in connection of humans to nature

The connection that individuals have with nature impacts their well-being and their support for pro-nature policies. While it is generally believed that the connection between humans and nature is decreasing, the extent of this trend is uncertain. Here, we present a global analysis of the temporal changes in people's psychological and physical connections to nature. Using a systematic review protocol, we identified 71 articles consisting of 100 case studies. Most of these studies used cross-sectional, rather than longitudinal, approaches, which examine the connection to nature among people of different ages. The literature we reviewed indicates that there has been a decline in human connection to nature over time. However, the magnitude of changes in nature connection varied by geographic and socio-economic settings, with some studies showing an increasing trend. These findings suggest that there are opportunities to limit and reverse ongoing disconnection of humans from nature where it does occur.

Automated summary

The connection between individuals and nature affects their well-being and support for pro-nature policies. This study presents a global analysis of the changes in people's psychological and physical connections to nature over time. The reviewed literature suggests a decline in human connection to nature, although the magnitude of changes varies depending on geographic and socio-economic settings.