Britain is one of the least “nature-connected” countries in the world, ranking 55th out of 61 nations in a global survey of 57,000 people. The study, published in Ambio, examined how cultural, social, and economic factors shape people’s relationships with the natural world.
Nepal topped the list, followed by Iran, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Nigeria. At the other end were the Netherlands, Canada, Germany, Israel, Japan, and Spain — the least connected of all.
Researchers from the University of Derby and Austria’s University of Graz found that stronger spirituality and religious belief correlated with closer ties to nature, while business-friendly economies, high income, urbanisation, and heavy internet use were linked to weaker connections.
Lead author Prof Miles Richardson said Britain’s low ranking reflected its rational, technology-driven culture: “We’ve become a more economic and scientific society. The challenge now is how to reintegrate nature into modern life — to make it feel valued and even sacred.”
He suggested boosting access to nature in healthcare, business, and city planning, adding: “It’s not just about more parks — it’s about creating deeper, more meaningful connections.”
