In the top 10 global nations with the strongest connection with nature, the only representatives of the European Union are Croatia and Bulgaria.
In contrast, strong economies such as Germany, Spain and the Netherlands are at the opposite end of the ranking, he writes
This data comes from a ground-breaking global study published in the scientific journal Ambio. It assessed the emotional and cognitive relationship with nature of more than 56,000 people from 61 countries. The conclusions show that people’s attachment to the environment is shaped not only by geographical factors, but also by cultural elements. Religiosity, degree of urbanization and standard of living also affect this aspect.
The surprise of Eastern Europe: Croatia and Bulgaria
Although the European Union has well-developed environmental policies, only Croatia and Bulgaria manage to rank among the top ten countries in the world in terms of connection with nature. The study suggests that local traditions, rich biodiversity and a lifestyle closer to the countryside are key factors that explain this performance.
In contrast, Spain, Germany and the Netherlands are among the European nations whose residents show the least attachment to nature. Intense urbanization, high population density and dependence on technology are considered the main causes of this low score.
According to the study’s authors, “connection with nature” is an accurate indicator of how individuals perceive themselves as an integral part of the natural world. People with a deeper connection to the environment tend to have better health. They also show a higher emotional balance and are more inclined to adopt ecological behaviors.
The research also highlights an interesting correlation. It appears that a higher level of spirituality is often associated with a deeper connection to nature.
The factors that determine the connection with the environment
Researchers have identified several factors with a major impact on the relationship between man and nature:
Degree of urbanization: The connection weakens as the living environment becomes more urban.
Economic prosperity: Paradoxically, high incomes are associated with less proximity to nature.
Digitization: Frequent use of the Internet contributes to distancing from the natural environment.
Local biodiversity: Areas with high natural richness stimulate emotional attachment.
Spirituality: It is correlated with a deeper perception of the natural world.
A surprising conclusion of the study is that the existence and number of members of environmental organizations does not directly correlate with the actual level of attachment of the population to nature.
The situation of Europe’s forests is worrying
About 40% of the surface of Europe is covered by forests. More than a quarter of this territory is under protection. However, forest biodiversity is in decline, a main cause being intensive logging.
In October, the European Parliament rejected a legislative project that would have required member states to uniformly monitor the “health state” of forests. The proposal aimed to collect standardized data on the effects of fire, drought, pests and human activity. This information is vital in the context of accelerating climate change.
Recent studies point out that restoring an authentic connection between humans and nature can play a crucial role in mitigating ecological crises. This topic including all possible factors, from biodiversity loss to ecosystem degradation. In an increasingly urbanized and digitized Europe, this reconnection would not only be a benefit, but an essential necessity.
