Heroes for nature: understanding childhood nature experiences in motivating action for nature

Bernadette F. van Heel, Riyan J. G. van den Born and Noelle Aarts

Journal of Environmental Planning and Management, 2025, vol. 68, issue 5, 1128-1147

Abstract: In the current biodiversity crisis, young people committed to act for nature need to be treasured. We did retrospective interviews with young adults who are dedicated to acting for nature in order to find patterns in their life experiences that contribute to their relationship with nature and drive their action for nature. We found that autonomous early childhood nature experiences build a foundation for young adults’ connection with nature. In early adolescence, engagement with nature takes flight after moments of wonder, significant life experiences, or encounters with like-minded peers. Some interviewees experienced a temporary lack of interest in nature during puberty. Using self-determination theory as a theoretical lens revealed that the basic psychological needs – relatedness, autonomy, and competence – manifested throughout the young adults’ lives. We use our findings to indicate both directions for future research and practical implications.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1080/09640568.2023.2281875

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