Nature connectedness 

Research has shown significant mental health and wellbeing from spending time around nature, including reduced stress, restored attention, and improved wellbeing and positivity. Find out more about mental health and wellbeing at work and stress management. 

Green spaces like parks or gardens give people more chances to be active. Walking meetings, outdoor breaks or lunchtime walks can help staff move more during the day, whilst also creating opportunities to be around nature. Active workplaces also have further benefits for businesses and employees. 

Public green spaces can help people connect with others. Whether it’s chatting during a walk or joining a group activity outdoors, nature can help build stronger social bonds and improve teamwork. 

Nature is full of tiny organisms that we can’t see, but they’re important for our health. Spending time outdoors helps us come into contact with these microorganisms, which may support a healthy microbiome – this is the collection of helpful bacteria in our bodies, which can boost our immune systems and help keep us well. 

Forests, plants and oceans help absorb harmful greenhouse gases. Improving nature’s ability to absorb emissions, through conservation and restoration, can help to reduce greenhouse gas emission. Supporting events like Clean Air Day is a great way to raise awareness and help create a healthier workplace. 

People who are more connected to nature are more likely to take actions to protect it, and participate in more sustainable behaviours for the environment.