The Human–Nature Relationship as a Tangible Target for Pro-Environmental Behaviour—Guidance from Interpersonal Relationships

Michael L. Lengieza, Rosemary Aviste and Miles Richardson ()
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Michael L. Lengieza: Department of Psychology, Durham University, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
Rosemary Aviste: Department of Psychology, The Pennsylvania State University, Moore Building, University Park, State College, PA 16802, USA
Miles Richardson: Nature Connectedness Research Group, University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby DE22 1GB, UK

Sustainability, 2023, vol. 15, issue 16, 1-28

Abstract: Major environmental institutions around the globe are realising that the failing human–nature relationship is a root cause of environmental issues. Despite this shift in thinking, there is more work to be done to highlight the human–nature relationship as a tangible target for pro-environmental behaviour. This review argues for the importance of targeting human–nature relationships. It emphasises that nature connectedness, with its robust links to pro-environmental behaviour, is a useful operationalisation of such relationships. Following a review of recent references to the human–nature relationship in policy documents, this paper draws on theories of interpersonal relationships to illustrate how they can inform efforts to repair the human–nature relationship. Parallels between nature connectedness research and research on interpersonal relationships are highlighted. The potential for new routes to a closer human–nature relationship—including a more meaningful (e.g., intimate) engagement with nature, a cultural shift in support for human–nature relationships, fostering trust in nature and recognising reciprocity with nature—are noted. This review concludes that the human–nature relationship can be seen as an extension of interpersonal relationships, provides a tangible pathway to a sustainable future, and suggests that such explicit relationship-focused thinking can guide both policy and research.

Keywords: human–nature relationships; interpersonal relationships; nature connectedness; pro-environmental behaviour (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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