Nature Experiences

Research Themes

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.

The Protecting Moreton Bay’s Values project used cluster analysis to understand how South East Queensland (SEQ) residents perceive and interact with Moreton Bay and its Marine Park. By identifying distinct community segments, the project provides a strategic framework for tailoring communication and stewardship initiatives to diverse social groups.

The Monitoring Green and Blue Space Benefits and Values in SEQ project is a long-term social monitoring initiative that tracks how residents of South East Queensland perceive, value, and interact with their local environment. By monitoring these “human dimensions,” the project provides critical evidence to support the annual Healthy Land & Water Report Card and guides regional investment in natural resource management.

The Working with Tourism Operators project investigated how transformative tourism experiences at Lady Elliot Island influence visitor engagement with climate action. By quantifying the impact of various island activities and subjective perceptions, the study identifies critical pathways for motivating personal climate mitigation and decarbonisation efforts.

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.