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Exposure to green/blue spaces is associated with greater nature connectedness and feelings of restoration but the focus has primarily been on visual/auditory experiences. We explored the potential role of experiences of touch, through walking barefoot. Participants took part in a repeat cross-over experiment that compared walking barefoot vs. shod, in a public garden and beach environment. Barefoot walkers had higher connectedness and restoration than shoe wearers in both environments, though increased tactile experiences only mediated the relationship in the beach setting. Findings suggest that walking barefoot is a viable and low-cost activity to facilitating greater feelings of nature connectedness and psychological restoration.
Sophie C. Rickard; Mathew P. White. Barefoot walking, nature connectedness and psychological restoration: the importance of stimulating the sense of touch for feeling closer to the natural world. Landscape Research 2021, 1 -17.
AMA StyleSophie C. Rickard, Mathew P. White. Barefoot walking, nature connectedness and psychological restoration: the importance of stimulating the sense of touch for feeling closer to the natural world. Landscape Research. 2021; ():1-17.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSophie C. Rickard; Mathew P. White. 2021. "Barefoot walking, nature connectedness and psychological restoration: the importance of stimulating the sense of touch for feeling closer to the natural world." Landscape Research , no. : 1-17.
While many studies suggest evidence for the health benefits of nature, there is currently no standardized method to measure time spent in nature or nature contact, nor agreement on how best to define nature contact in research. The purpose of this review is to summarize how nature contact has been measured in recent health research and provide insight into current metrics of exposure to nature at individual and population scales. The most common methods include surrounding greenness, questionnaires, and global positioning systems (GPS) tracking. Several national-level surveys exist, though these are limited by their cross-sectional design, often measuring only a single component of time spent in nature, and poor links to measures of health. In future research, exposure assessment combining the quantifying (e.g., time spent in nature and frequency of visits to nature) and qualifying (e.g., greenness by the normalized difference of vegetation index (NDVI) and ratings on perception by individuals) aspects of current methods and leveraging innovative methods (e.g., experience sampling methods, ecological momentary assessment) will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the health effects of nature exposure and inform health policy and urban planning.
Isabel Holland; Nicole DeVille; Matthew Browning; Ryan Buehler; Jaime Hart; J. Hipp; Richard Mitchell; Donald Rakow; Jessica Schiff; Mathew White; Jie Yin; Peter James. Measuring Nature Contact: A Narrative Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2021, 18, 4092 .
AMA StyleIsabel Holland, Nicole DeVille, Matthew Browning, Ryan Buehler, Jaime Hart, J. Hipp, Richard Mitchell, Donald Rakow, Jessica Schiff, Mathew White, Jie Yin, Peter James. Measuring Nature Contact: A Narrative Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18 (8):4092.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIsabel Holland; Nicole DeVille; Matthew Browning; Ryan Buehler; Jaime Hart; J. Hipp; Richard Mitchell; Donald Rakow; Jessica Schiff; Mathew White; Jie Yin; Peter James. 2021. "Measuring Nature Contact: A Narrative Review." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 8: 4092.
This study estimates the value of recreational visits to blue-space sites across 14 EU Member States, representing 78% of the Union's population. Across all countries surveyed, respondents made an average of 47 blue-space visits per person per year. Employing travel cost and contingent behaviour methods, the value of a visit is estimated at €41.32 which adds up to a recreational value of €631bn per year for the total adult population surveyed. Using the Bathing Water Directive's water quality designation, the analysis shows that a one-level improvement in water quality leads to 3.13 more visits (+6.67%), whereas a one-level deterioration leads to 9.77 fewer annual visits (−20.83%). This study provides valuations of benefits of recreation and changes of recreational values due to changes in surface water quality, which can be compared to the implementation and monitoring costs of efforts under the EU's Bathing Water, Water Framework and Marine Strategy Framework Directives.
Tobias Börger; Danny Campbell; Mathew P. White; Lewis R. Elliott; Lora E. Fleming; Joanne K. Garrett; Caroline Hattam; Stephen Hynes; Tuija Lankia; Tim Taylor. The value of blue-space recreation and perceived water quality across Europe: A contingent behaviour study. Science of The Total Environment 2021, 771, 145597 .
AMA StyleTobias Börger, Danny Campbell, Mathew P. White, Lewis R. Elliott, Lora E. Fleming, Joanne K. Garrett, Caroline Hattam, Stephen Hynes, Tuija Lankia, Tim Taylor. The value of blue-space recreation and perceived water quality across Europe: A contingent behaviour study. Science of The Total Environment. 2021; 771 ():145597.
Chicago/Turabian StyleTobias Börger; Danny Campbell; Mathew P. White; Lewis R. Elliott; Lora E. Fleming; Joanne K. Garrett; Caroline Hattam; Stephen Hynes; Tuija Lankia; Tim Taylor. 2021. "The value of blue-space recreation and perceived water quality across Europe: A contingent behaviour study." Science of The Total Environment 771, no. : 145597.
Recent reports have presented evidence of dramatic biodiversity declines. Despite the threat posed by such losses we know little about people's reactions to such information, or rarer ‘bright spot’ stories of localised recovery. We explored these issues through the lens of prospect theory, testing three aspects: a) reference dependence, b) loss aversion, and c) diminishing sensitivity. Study 1 (n = 393) presented US participants with a hypothetical ecological survey reporting changes in bird species at a key site between 1996 and 2016 using a 2 (Baseline species richness: Low/high) x 2 (Change direction: Loss/gain) x 4 (Change magnitude: 5/10/15/20 species) between-participants design. Study 2 (n = 570) used the same design but focused on marine species richness among a UK sample. Responses were measured using a version of the Scale of Positive and Negative Experience. Both studies found evidence of reference dependence, but not loss aversion. In fact both studies found that reactions to biodiversity gains were stronger than equivalent losses; gains ‘loomed larger’ than losses. There was little evidence of diminishing sensitivity; scope insensitivity was the predominant pattern for losses and gains across both studies. Although those high in nature relatedness reacted more strongly to losses and gains, relatedness did not moderate any effects. Results suggest that communicators should not be surprised if reports of biodiversity declines do not have the impact they hoped, and that weaving in ‘bright spot’ stories may help people engage with the broader issues.
Mathew P. White; Gregory N. Bratman; Sabine Pahl; Gerald Young; Deborah Cracknell; Lewis R. Elliott. Affective reactions to losses and gains in biodiversity: Testing a prospect theory approach. Journal of Environmental Psychology 2020, 72, 101502 .
AMA StyleMathew P. White, Gregory N. Bratman, Sabine Pahl, Gerald Young, Deborah Cracknell, Lewis R. Elliott. Affective reactions to losses and gains in biodiversity: Testing a prospect theory approach. Journal of Environmental Psychology. 2020; 72 ():101502.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMathew P. White; Gregory N. Bratman; Sabine Pahl; Gerald Young; Deborah Cracknell; Lewis R. Elliott. 2020. "Affective reactions to losses and gains in biodiversity: Testing a prospect theory approach." Journal of Environmental Psychology 72, no. : 101502.
Research into the potential health and well-being benefits from exposure to green spaces such as parks and woodlands has led to the development of several frameworks linking the different strands of evidence. The current paper builds on these to provide a model of how exposure to aquatic environments, or blue spaces such as rivers, lakes and the coast, in particular, may benefit health and well-being. Although green and blue spaces share many commonalities, there are also important differences. Given the breadth of the research, spanning multiple disciplines and research methodologies, a narrative review approach was adopted which aimed to highlight key issues and processes rather than provide a definitive balance of evidence summary. Novel aspects of our framework included the inclusion of outcomes that are only indirectly good for health through being good for the environment, the addition of nature connectedness as both a trait and state, and feedback loops where actions/interventions to increase exposure are implemented. Limitations of the review and areas for future work, including the need to integrate potential benefits with potential risks, are discussed.
Mathew P. White; Lewis R. Elliott; Mireia Gascon; Bethany Roberts; Lora E. Fleming. Blue space, health and well-being: A narrative overview and synthesis of potential benefits. Environmental Research 2020, 191, 110169 .
AMA StyleMathew P. White, Lewis R. Elliott, Mireia Gascon, Bethany Roberts, Lora E. Fleming. Blue space, health and well-being: A narrative overview and synthesis of potential benefits. Environmental Research. 2020; 191 ():110169.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMathew P. White; Lewis R. Elliott; Mireia Gascon; Bethany Roberts; Lora E. Fleming. 2020. "Blue space, health and well-being: A narrative overview and synthesis of potential benefits." Environmental Research 191, no. : 110169.
Within the BlueHealth project, funded under the Horizon 2020 European Union research framework, a number of targeted experimental design interventions were used to test the effect and impact of planning and design on encouraging people to use various blue spaces. Complex interventions were implemented and evaluations before and after each were made using a set of tools which triangulate with each other—a site assessment tool, a behaviour observation tool, a questionnaire survey (including an economic evaluation) and qualitative interviews. The theoretical basis for the research is that of affordances, and the projects each involved modest changes to the landscape using the approach of “urban acupuncture” where a small intervention can potentially have an effect out of all proportion to the investment. This paper is a protocol paper and describes the research strategy and methodology in detail for one of the intervention sites, located in Plymouth in the UK. The aim is to present the methodology as a whole so as to act as (a) a reference framework for the results of all the projects which will be reported separately in a series of research articles once all the results are in and analysed and (b) a useful reference for other researchers wishing to carry out such complex projects and where a comprehensive presentation of the strategy and methodology is unavailable. We offer this protocol for reference, for critique and for inspiration to those following us.
Simon Bell; Himansu Sekhar Mishra; Lewis R. Elliott; Rebecca Shellock; Peeter Vassiljev; Miriam Porter; Zoe Sydenham; Mathew P. White. Urban Blue Acupuncture: A Protocol for Evaluating a Complex Landscape Design Intervention to Improve Health and Wellbeing in a Coastal Community. Sustainability 2020, 12, 4084 .
AMA StyleSimon Bell, Himansu Sekhar Mishra, Lewis R. Elliott, Rebecca Shellock, Peeter Vassiljev, Miriam Porter, Zoe Sydenham, Mathew P. White. Urban Blue Acupuncture: A Protocol for Evaluating a Complex Landscape Design Intervention to Improve Health and Wellbeing in a Coastal Community. Sustainability. 2020; 12 (10):4084.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSimon Bell; Himansu Sekhar Mishra; Lewis R. Elliott; Rebecca Shellock; Peeter Vassiljev; Miriam Porter; Zoe Sydenham; Mathew P. White. 2020. "Urban Blue Acupuncture: A Protocol for Evaluating a Complex Landscape Design Intervention to Improve Health and Wellbeing in a Coastal Community." Sustainability 12, no. 10: 4084.
Research has found that natural environments within urban areas are associated with benefits for human health and wellbeing. However, most studies have primarily focused on publically accessible green space. Less is known about domestic gardens, which in the UK comprise a high proportion of land cover in urban areas and could form a resource for health promotion. This study analysed secondary data from the Monitor of Engagement with the Natural Environment (MENE) survey, a representative survey of the English population (n = 7,814). We investigated the relationships between garden access and use and: general health; evaluative and eudaimonic wellbeing; meeting physical activity guidelines; and visiting nature in the last week. Statistical models included a range of individual and area-level socio-demographic variables. Compared to no garden access, access to a private garden was associated with better evaluative wellbeing, and people with access to a private space such as a balcony, yard or patio were more likely to meet physical activity guidelines. Respondents who reported both gardening and using a garden to relax also reported better health and wellbeing, more physical activity, and more nature visits than those who did not. These findings indicate that domestic gardens are a potential health resource and are not necessarily substituted for by other natural environments, highlighting the importance of their provision alongside green space in urban policy and planning.
Siân de Bell; Mathew White; Alistair Griffiths; Alison Darlow; Timothy Taylor; Benedict Wheeler; Rebecca Lovell. Spending time in the garden is positively associated with health and wellbeing: Results from a national survey in England. Landscape and Urban Planning 2020, 200, 103836 .
AMA StyleSiân de Bell, Mathew White, Alistair Griffiths, Alison Darlow, Timothy Taylor, Benedict Wheeler, Rebecca Lovell. Spending time in the garden is positively associated with health and wellbeing: Results from a national survey in England. Landscape and Urban Planning. 2020; 200 ():103836.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSiân de Bell; Mathew White; Alistair Griffiths; Alison Darlow; Timothy Taylor; Benedict Wheeler; Rebecca Lovell. 2020. "Spending time in the garden is positively associated with health and wellbeing: Results from a national survey in England." Landscape and Urban Planning 200, no. : 103836.
The health risks of coastal areas have long been researched, but the potential benefits for health are only recently being explored. The present study compared the general health of Belgian citizens a) according to the EU's definition of coastal (50 km), and b) between eight more refined categories of residential proximity to the coast (250 km). Data was drawn from the Belgian Health Interview Survey (n = 60,939) and investigated using linear regression models and mediation analyses on several hypothesized mechanisms. Results indicated that populations living 50–100 km. Four commonly hypothesized mechanisms were considered but no indirect associations were found: scores for mental health, physical activity levels and social contacts were not higher at 0–5 km from the coast, and air pollution (PM10 concentrations) was lower at 0–5 km from the coast but not statistically associated with better health. Results are controlled for typical variables such as age, sex, income, neighbourhood levels of green and freshwater blue space, etc. The spatial urban-rural-nature mosaic at the Belgian coast and alternative explanations are discussed. The positive associations between the ocean and human health observed in this study encourage policy makers to manage coastal areas sustainably to maintain associated public health benefits into the future.
Alexander Hooyberg; Henk Roose; James Grellier; Lewis R. Elliott; Britt Lonneville; Mathew P. White; Nathalie Michels; Stefaan De Henauw; Michiel Vandegehuchte; Gert Everaert. General health and residential proximity to the coast in Belgium: Results from a cross-sectional health survey. Environmental Research 2020, 184, 109225 .
AMA StyleAlexander Hooyberg, Henk Roose, James Grellier, Lewis R. Elliott, Britt Lonneville, Mathew P. White, Nathalie Michels, Stefaan De Henauw, Michiel Vandegehuchte, Gert Everaert. General health and residential proximity to the coast in Belgium: Results from a cross-sectional health survey. Environmental Research. 2020; 184 ():109225.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAlexander Hooyberg; Henk Roose; James Grellier; Lewis R. Elliott; Britt Lonneville; Mathew P. White; Nathalie Michels; Stefaan De Henauw; Michiel Vandegehuchte; Gert Everaert. 2020. "General health and residential proximity to the coast in Belgium: Results from a cross-sectional health survey." Environmental Research 184, no. : 109225.
Progress on changing human behaviour to meet the challenges of regional and global sustainability has been slow. Building on theory as well as small-scale survey and experimental evidence that exposure to nature may be associated with greater pro-environmentalism, the aim of the current study was to quantify relationships between exposure to nature (operationalised as neighbourhood greenspace, coastal proximity, and recreational nature visits) as well as appreciation of the natural world, and self-reported pro-environmental behaviour for the adult population of England. Using data from a nationally representative sample (N = 24,204), and controlling for potential confounders, a structural equation model was used to estimate relationships. Indirect effects of neighbourhood exposures via nature visits and nature appreciation were accounted for. We found positive relationships between both recreational nature visits and nature appreciation and pro-environmental behaviour across both the whole sample and key socio-demographic groups. The more individuals visited nature for recreation and the more they appreciated the natural world, the more pro-environmental behaviour they reported. Although rural and coastal dwellers tended to also be more pro-environmental on average, patterns were complex, potentially reflecting situational constraints and opportunities. Importantly, positive associations between pro-environmental behaviours and high neighbourhood greenspace and coastal proximity were present for both high and low socio-economic status households. Improving access to, and contact with, nature, e.g., through better urban planning, may be one approach for meeting sustainability targets.
Ian Alcock; Mathew P White; Sabine Pahl; Raquel Duarte-Davidson; Lora E Fleming. Associations between pro-environmental behaviour and neighbourhood nature, nature visit frequency and nature appreciation: Evidence from a nationally representative survey in England. Environment International 2020, 136, 105441 .
AMA StyleIan Alcock, Mathew P White, Sabine Pahl, Raquel Duarte-Davidson, Lora E Fleming. Associations between pro-environmental behaviour and neighbourhood nature, nature visit frequency and nature appreciation: Evidence from a nationally representative survey in England. Environment International. 2020; 136 ():105441.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIan Alcock; Mathew P White; Sabine Pahl; Raquel Duarte-Davidson; Lora E Fleming. 2020. "Associations between pro-environmental behaviour and neighbourhood nature, nature visit frequency and nature appreciation: Evidence from a nationally representative survey in England." Environment International 136, no. : 105441.
Although the UK consumes a substantial amount of shellfish, most is imported (e.g. prawns), while locally harvested molluscs and crustaceans (e.g. mussels, crab) tend to be exported. This study aimed to investigate whether a low rate of local shellfish consumption in the UK is due to misunderstandings or knowledge gaps about the potential health and environmental risks and benefits of consumption. Following the Mental Models Approach, the present paper reveals: 1) qualitative results from 26 stakeholder/public interviews which identified 10 key misunderstandings and knowledge gaps, including incorrect beliefs about health risks and a lack of knowledge about the relative environmental benefits compared to other foods (key misunderstandings included some parts of a crab are poisonous if eaten, and the majority of UK shellfish is farmed), and 2) quantitative results from a survey (n = 1,433) that explored the degree to which these misunderstandings and knowledge gaps may influence consumption intentions in the wider UK population. Survey results suggested the number of misunderstandings and knowledge gaps significantly predicted shellfish consumption intentions even after controlling for demographics, food related values, and past consumption behaviour. Path analyses revealed their impact on intentions was partially mediated via Theory of Planned Behaviour variables. Results could inform information campaigns supporting consumers to make more informed decisions regarding a group of foods that are potentially both healthy and relatively environmentally friendly.
Nick J. Boase; Mathew P. White; William H. Gaze; Clare H. Redshaw. Why don't the British eat locally harvested shellfish? The role of misconceptions and knowledge gaps. Appetite 2019, 143, 104352 .
AMA StyleNick J. Boase, Mathew P. White, William H. Gaze, Clare H. Redshaw. Why don't the British eat locally harvested shellfish? The role of misconceptions and knowledge gaps. Appetite. 2019; 143 ():104352.
Chicago/Turabian StyleNick J. Boase; Mathew P. White; William H. Gaze; Clare H. Redshaw. 2019. "Why don't the British eat locally harvested shellfish? The role of misconceptions and knowledge gaps." Appetite 143, no. : 104352.
Our future health and wellbeing depend on the oceans
Michael H Depledge; Mathew P White; Bruce Maycock; Lora E Fleming. Time and tide. BMJ 2019, 366, l4671 .
AMA StyleMichael H Depledge, Mathew P White, Bruce Maycock, Lora E Fleming. Time and tide. BMJ. 2019; 366 ():l4671.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMichael H Depledge; Mathew P White; Bruce Maycock; Lora E Fleming. 2019. "Time and tide." BMJ 366, no. : l4671.
A growing body of empirical evidence is revealing the value of nature experience for mental health. With rapid urbanization and declines in human contact with nature globally, crucial decisions must be made about how to preserve and enhance opportunities for nature experience. Here, we first provide points of consensus across the natural, social, and health sciences on the impacts of nature experience on cognitive functioning, emotional well-being, and other dimensions of mental health. We then show how ecosystem service assessments can be expanded to include mental health, and provide a heuristic, conceptual model for doing so.
Gregory N. Bratman; Christopher B. Anderson; Marc G. Berman; Bobby Cochran; Sjerp De Vries; Jon Flanders; Carl Folke; Howard Frumkin; James J. Gross; Terry Hartig; Peter H. Kahn; Ming Kuo; Joshua J. Lawler; Phillip S. Levin; Therese Lindahl; Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg; Richard Mitchell; Zhiyun Ouyang; Jenny Roe; Lynn Scarlett; Jeffrey R. Smith; Matilda Van Den Bosch; Benedict W. Wheeler; Mathew P. White; Hua Zheng; Gretchen C. Daily. Nature and mental health: An ecosystem service perspective. Science Advances 2019, 5, eaax0903 .
AMA StyleGregory N. Bratman, Christopher B. Anderson, Marc G. Berman, Bobby Cochran, Sjerp De Vries, Jon Flanders, Carl Folke, Howard Frumkin, James J. Gross, Terry Hartig, Peter H. Kahn, Ming Kuo, Joshua J. Lawler, Phillip S. Levin, Therese Lindahl, Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg, Richard Mitchell, Zhiyun Ouyang, Jenny Roe, Lynn Scarlett, Jeffrey R. Smith, Matilda Van Den Bosch, Benedict W. Wheeler, Mathew P. White, Hua Zheng, Gretchen C. Daily. Nature and mental health: An ecosystem service perspective. Science Advances. 2019; 5 (7):eaax0903.
Chicago/Turabian StyleGregory N. Bratman; Christopher B. Anderson; Marc G. Berman; Bobby Cochran; Sjerp De Vries; Jon Flanders; Carl Folke; Howard Frumkin; James J. Gross; Terry Hartig; Peter H. Kahn; Ming Kuo; Joshua J. Lawler; Phillip S. Levin; Therese Lindahl; Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg; Richard Mitchell; Zhiyun Ouyang; Jenny Roe; Lynn Scarlett; Jeffrey R. Smith; Matilda Van Den Bosch; Benedict W. Wheeler; Mathew P. White; Hua Zheng; Gretchen C. Daily. 2019. "Nature and mental health: An ecosystem service perspective." Science Advances 5, no. 7: eaax0903.
This paper presents a novel investigation of a conceptual model, proposing that increased nature exposure may be associated with lower cravings, through reductions in negative affect. A cross-sectional online survey (N = 149) provided an initial exploration of the relationships between various aspects of nature exposure, craving and negative affect. Access to gardens/allotments and residential views incorporating more than 25% greenspace were both associated with reductions in the strength and frequency of cravings. These associations were mediated, to varying degrees, by reductions in negative affect. This novel link could have implications for public health and environmental protection programmes.
Leanne Martin; Sabine Pahl; Mathew P. White; Jon May. Natural environments and craving: The mediating role of negative affect. Health & Place 2019, 58, 102160 .
AMA StyleLeanne Martin, Sabine Pahl, Mathew P. White, Jon May. Natural environments and craving: The mediating role of negative affect. Health & Place. 2019; 58 ():102160.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLeanne Martin; Sabine Pahl; Mathew P. White; Jon May. 2019. "Natural environments and craving: The mediating role of negative affect." Health & Place 58, no. : 102160.
Spending time in natural environments can benefit health and well-being, but exposure-response relationships are under-researched. We examined associations between recreational nature contact in the last seven days and self-reported health and well-being. Participants (n = 19,806) were drawn from the Monitor of Engagement with the Natural Environment Survey (2014/15–2015/16); weighted to be nationally representative. Weekly contact was categorised using 60 min blocks. Analyses controlled for residential greenspace and other neighbourhood and individual factors. Compared to no nature contact last week, the likelihood of reporting good health or high well-being became significantly greater with contact ≥120 mins (e.g. 120–179 mins: ORs [95%CIs]: Health = 1.59 [1.31–1.92]; Well-being = 1.23 [1.08–1.40]). Positive associations peaked between 200–300 mins per week with no further gain. The pattern was consistent across key groups including older adults and those with long-term health issues. It did not matter how 120 mins of contact a week was achieved (e.g. one long vs. several shorter visits/week). Prospective longitudinal and intervention studies are a critical next step in developing possible weekly nature exposure guidelines comparable to those for physical activity.
Mathew P. White; Ian Alcock; James Grellier; Benedict Wheeler; Terry Hartig; Sara L. Warber; Angie Bone; Michael H. Depledge; Lora E. Fleming. Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing. Scientific Reports 2019, 9, 1 -11.
AMA StyleMathew P. White, Ian Alcock, James Grellier, Benedict Wheeler, Terry Hartig, Sara L. Warber, Angie Bone, Michael H. Depledge, Lora E. Fleming. Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing. Scientific Reports. 2019; 9 (1):1-11.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMathew P. White; Ian Alcock; James Grellier; Benedict Wheeler; Terry Hartig; Sara L. Warber; Angie Bone; Michael H. Depledge; Lora E. Fleming. 2019. "Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing." Scientific Reports 9, no. 1: 1-11.
With benefits to both human well-being and pro-nature conservation behaviors, nature connectedness is emerging as an important psychological construct for a sustainable future. The growing research and applied and policy-related interests require a straightforward measure of nature connectedness that is suitable for both children and adult populations. To establish the reliability of the new Nature Connection Index (NCI) three factor analyses were conducted. One was based on a large Monitor of Engagement with the Natural Environment (MENE) dataset for adults (n = 3568) with a replication from data sets collected online (n = 553), and a third used MENE data from children (n = 351). To validate the NCI as a measure for nature connectedness an online comparison study (n = 153) included the NCI alongside other established measures. The results showed that the NCI was a reliable and valid scale that offers a short, simple alternative to other measures of nature connectedness, particularly for populations including both children and adults, measured face to face or online. The utility of the NCI is also supported, with variations associated with various pro-environmental and pro-conservation behaviors observed, and importantly the NCI also revealed changes in nature connectedness across the lifespan.
Miles Richardson; Anne Hunt; Joe Hinds; Rachel Bragg; Dean Fido; Dominic Petronzi; Lea Barbett; Theodore Clitherow; Matthew White. A Measure of Nature Connectedness for Children and Adults: Validation, Performance, and Insights. Sustainability 2019, 11, 3250 .
AMA StyleMiles Richardson, Anne Hunt, Joe Hinds, Rachel Bragg, Dean Fido, Dominic Petronzi, Lea Barbett, Theodore Clitherow, Matthew White. A Measure of Nature Connectedness for Children and Adults: Validation, Performance, and Insights. Sustainability. 2019; 11 (12):3250.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMiles Richardson; Anne Hunt; Joe Hinds; Rachel Bragg; Dean Fido; Dominic Petronzi; Lea Barbett; Theodore Clitherow; Matthew White. 2019. "A Measure of Nature Connectedness for Children and Adults: Validation, Performance, and Insights." Sustainability 11, no. 12: 3250.
The promotion of physical activity through better urban design is one pathway by which health and well-being improvements can be achieved. This study aimed to quantify health and health-related economic impacts associated with physical activity in an urban riverside park regeneration project in Barcelona, Spain. We used data from Barcelona local authorities and meta-analysis assessing physical activity and health outcomes to develop and apply the “Blue Active Tool”. We estimated park user health impacts in terms of all-cause mortality, morbidity (ischemic heart disease; ischemic stroke; type 2 diabetes; cancers of the colon and breast; and dementia), disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and health-related economic impacts. We estimated that 5753 adult users visited the riverside park daily and performed different types of physical activity (walking for leisure or to/from work, cycling, and running). Related to the physical activity conducted on the riverside park, we estimated an annual reduction of 7.3 deaths (95% CI: 5.4; 10.2), and 6.2 cases of diseases (95% CI: 2.0; 11.6). This corresponds to 11.9 DALYs (95% CI: 3.4; 20.5) and an annual health-economic impact of 23.4 million euros (95% CI: 17.2 million; 32.8 million). The urban regeneration intervention of this riverside park provides health and health-related economic benefits to the population using the infrastructure.
Cristina Vert; Mark Nieuwenhuijsen; Mireia Gascon; James Grellier; Lora E. Fleming; Mathew P. White; David Rojas-Rueda. Health Benefits of Physical Activity Related to An Urban Riverside Regeneration. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2019, 16, 462 .
AMA StyleCristina Vert, Mark Nieuwenhuijsen, Mireia Gascon, James Grellier, Lora E. Fleming, Mathew P. White, David Rojas-Rueda. Health Benefits of Physical Activity Related to An Urban Riverside Regeneration. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2019; 16 (3):462.
Chicago/Turabian StyleCristina Vert; Mark Nieuwenhuijsen; Mireia Gascon; James Grellier; Lora E. Fleming; Mathew P. White; David Rojas-Rueda. 2019. "Health Benefits of Physical Activity Related to An Urban Riverside Regeneration." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 16, no. 3: 462.
The potential benefits of aquatic environments for public health have been understudied in Asia. We investigated the relationships between blue space exposures and health outcomes among a sample of predominantly older adults in Hong Kong. Those with a view of blue space from the home were more likely to report good general health, while intentional exposure was linked to greater odds of high wellbeing. Visiting blue space regularly was more likely for those within a 10–15 min walk, and who believed visit locations had good facilities and wildlife present. Longer blue space visits, and those involving higher intensity activities, were associated with higher recalled wellbeing. Our evidence suggests that, at least for older citizens, Hong Kong's blue spaces could be an important public health resource.
Joanne Garrett; Mathew P. White; Junjie Huang; Simpson Ng; Zero Hui; Colette Leung; Lap Ah Tse; Franklin Fung; Lewis Elliott; Michael H. Depledge; Martin C.S. Wong. Urban blue space and health and wellbeing in Hong Kong: Results from a survey of older adults. Health & Place 2018, 55, 100 -110.
AMA StyleJoanne Garrett, Mathew P. White, Junjie Huang, Simpson Ng, Zero Hui, Colette Leung, Lap Ah Tse, Franklin Fung, Lewis Elliott, Michael H. Depledge, Martin C.S. Wong. Urban blue space and health and wellbeing in Hong Kong: Results from a survey of older adults. Health & Place. 2018; 55 ():100-110.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJoanne Garrett; Mathew P. White; Junjie Huang; Simpson Ng; Zero Hui; Colette Leung; Lap Ah Tse; Franklin Fung; Lewis Elliott; Michael H. Depledge; Martin C.S. Wong. 2018. "Urban blue space and health and wellbeing in Hong Kong: Results from a survey of older adults." Health & Place 55, no. : 100-110.
Lewis Elliott; Mathew P. White; James Grellier; Siân E. Rees; Ruth D. Waters; Lora E. Fleming. Recreational visits to marine and coastal environments in England: Where, what, who, why, and when? Marine Policy 2018, 97, 305 -314.
AMA StyleLewis Elliott, Mathew P. White, James Grellier, Siân E. Rees, Ruth D. Waters, Lora E. Fleming. Recreational visits to marine and coastal environments in England: Where, what, who, why, and when? Marine Policy. 2018; 97 ():305-314.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLewis Elliott; Mathew P. White; James Grellier; Siân E. Rees; Ruth D. Waters; Lora E. Fleming. 2018. "Recreational visits to marine and coastal environments in England: Where, what, who, why, and when?" Marine Policy 97, no. : 305-314.
Increasingly, the potential short and long-term impacts of climate change on human health and wellbeing are being demonstrated. However, other environmental change factors, particularly relating to the natural environment, need to be taken into account to understand the totality of these interactions and impacts. This paper provides an overview of ongoing research in the Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) on Environmental Change and Health, particularly around the positive and negative effects of the natural environment on human health and well-being and primarily within a UK context. In addition to exploring the potential increasing risks to human health from water-borne and vector-borne diseases and from exposure to aeroallergens such as pollen, this paper also demonstrates the potential opportunities and co-benefits to human physical and mental health from interacting with the natural environment. The involvement of a Health and Environment Public Engagement (HEPE) group as a public forum of “critical friends” has proven useful for prioritising and exploring some of this research; such public involvement is essential to minimise public health risks and maximise the benefits which are identified from this research into environmental change and human health. Research gaps are identified and recommendations made for future research into the risks, benefits and potential opportunities of climate and other environmental change on human and planetary health.
Lora Fleming; Giovanni Leonardi; Mathew White; Jolyon Medlock; Ian Alcock; Helen Macintyre; Kath Maguire; Gordon Nichols; Benedict Wheeler; George Morris; Tim Taylor; Deborah Hemming; Gianni Iacono; Emma Gillingham; Kayleigh Hansford; Clare Heaviside; Angie Bone; Raquel Duarte-Davidson. Beyond Climate Change and Health: Integrating Broader Environmental Change and Natural Environments for Public Health Protection and Promotion in the UK. Atmosphere 2018, 9, 245 .
AMA StyleLora Fleming, Giovanni Leonardi, Mathew White, Jolyon Medlock, Ian Alcock, Helen Macintyre, Kath Maguire, Gordon Nichols, Benedict Wheeler, George Morris, Tim Taylor, Deborah Hemming, Gianni Iacono, Emma Gillingham, Kayleigh Hansford, Clare Heaviside, Angie Bone, Raquel Duarte-Davidson. Beyond Climate Change and Health: Integrating Broader Environmental Change and Natural Environments for Public Health Protection and Promotion in the UK. Atmosphere. 2018; 9 (7):245.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLora Fleming; Giovanni Leonardi; Mathew White; Jolyon Medlock; Ian Alcock; Helen Macintyre; Kath Maguire; Gordon Nichols; Benedict Wheeler; George Morris; Tim Taylor; Deborah Hemming; Gianni Iacono; Emma Gillingham; Kayleigh Hansford; Clare Heaviside; Angie Bone; Raquel Duarte-Davidson. 2018. "Beyond Climate Change and Health: Integrating Broader Environmental Change and Natural Environments for Public Health Protection and Promotion in the UK." Atmosphere 9, no. 7: 245.
Subjective wellbeing (SWB) is positively associated with both social connectedness and contact with natural environments. However, few studies have explored how these two predictors of SWB might interact. The current work hypothesised that high levels of nature exposure might mitigate (or buffer) any negative effects of a lack of recent social connectedness on wellbeing, by offering an alternative way for individuals to connect with the world around them. Results are based on data from 359 individuals who responded to an online survey in the UK. Measures of SWB, social connectedness and nature visit frequency all focused on the last seven days, and nearby nature was assessed in terms of the view from home and surrounding area. Regression models predicting SWB used interaction terms to test the buffering hypothesis, and controlled for sociodemographic and personality variables. Supporting predictions, social connectedness, nearby nature, and nature visit frequency were all positively associated with SWB. Partially supporting our buffering hypothesis, nearby nature, but not nature visit frequency, moderated the relationship between social connectedness and SWB. People with poor social connectedness still showed high levels of wellbeing if they reported high levels of nearby nature, and there was a lower likelihood of levels of wellbeing associated with depression among those with poor social connectedness if they had high nearby nature. Results confirmed the importance of nature exposure for wellbeing in itself, and highlighted its potential role in offering socially isolated individuals a way of satisfying the need to feel connected.
Benjamin D. S. Cartwright; Mathew P. White; Theodore J. Clitherow. Nearby Nature ‘Buffers’ the Effect of Low Social Connectedness on Adult Subjective Wellbeing over the Last 7 Days. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2018, 15, 1238 .
AMA StyleBenjamin D. S. Cartwright, Mathew P. White, Theodore J. Clitherow. Nearby Nature ‘Buffers’ the Effect of Low Social Connectedness on Adult Subjective Wellbeing over the Last 7 Days. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2018; 15 (6):1238.
Chicago/Turabian StyleBenjamin D. S. Cartwright; Mathew P. White; Theodore J. Clitherow. 2018. "Nearby Nature ‘Buffers’ the Effect of Low Social Connectedness on Adult Subjective Wellbeing over the Last 7 Days." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 15, no. 6: 1238.