Society, Nature and Place
Social science insights for a changing world
Society, Nature and Place is a research group led by Dr Angela Dean, Associate Professor in the School of Environment at The University of Queensland. We are social and inter-disciplinary scientists exploring the interface between people and the environment, with a focus on identifying how conservation and sustainability initiatives can foster positive outcomes for both society and nature.
Understanding People and Nature
Research That Makes a Difference
We explore how people connect with the environment from urban green spaces to ocean reefs, and develop strategies to promote conservation stewardship and meaningful engagement with the natural world. Through citizen science, community partnerships, and innovative communication strategies, we’re working to strengthen the connections between people and nature for lasting conservation impact.
Current Research
Researching the human dimensions of conservation: exploring how experiences of nature inspire action, build community, and create pathways to environmental stewardship.
Nature Experiences
Our research explores how people connect with and experience nature in both urban and blue space settings. We examine how these experiences influence emotional wellbeing, foster support for conservation initiatives, and can be made accessible to everyone in an increasingly urbanised world.
Participation and Collaboration
Our research examines citizen science and other participatory models where community members are involved in environmental monitoring and research. We explore the social impacts of these programs and how they provide entry points for broader citizenship activities and collective action for the environment.
Coexisting with Wildlife
Our research explores the social dimensions of human-wildlife interactions, particularly when conservation generates conflict between social groups or between people and wildlife. We investigate how values, life experience, and social context can be better understood to find solutions that support both conservation outcomes and community wellbeing.
Water for People and Nature
Our research examines how people connect with blue space, from rivers and lakes to coasts and oceans. We explore how these connections influence support for sustainable urban water management, waterway protection, and marine conservation, and investigate strategies to promote effective water stewardship.
