Report reveals powerful impact of nature on young people

A new report by researchers at the University of Derby has revealed the powerful impact of immersive nature experiences on the wellbeing and environmental awareness of young people.

The project evaluated the Generation Green 2 initiative funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and delivered by Access Unlimited, a coalition of not-for-profit youth organisations, school residential providers, and organisations managing protected landscapes.

It found that connecting young people with nature leads to significant and lasting benefits in mental health, emotional resilience and connection to the natural world.

The initiative was developed in response to growing evidence that children are spending less time outdoors and that access to green spaces remains unequal across some lower-income and ethnic minority backgrounds.

To address these inequalities, Generation Green 2 provided more than 26,000 young people aged between nine to 17 years old in England with opportunities to explore national parks, national landscapes and sites of special scientific interest.

Activities included multi-day residentials, day trips, and ‘nights under the stars’ – giving many the chance to experience the night sky free from light pollution for the first time.

The report, which included data from nearly 1,000 young participants and follow-up data three months later, found a range of immediate and longer-term benefits.

Dr Caroline Harvey, senior lecturer in psychology at the University of Derby and lead researcher, said: “We found clear evidence that time spent in nature can be truly transformational for young people.

“Beyond the immediate joy and excitement of these experiences, we saw deeper, longer-term changes in how participants viewed themselves, their relationships, and their role in the natural world.

“Nature connectedness is not just about spending time outside, it is about emotional and psychological bonds that can shape values, behaviours, and mental wellbeing in lasting ways.

“These findings underline the importance of ensuring all young people -regardless of background – have meaningful opportunities to access and connect with nature.”