Nature and Well-being Research Group @ CSU
What we do
Our research group works to better understand the relationship between human well-being and nature. We believe that well-being is a powerful tool for supporting equitable and effective environmentalism. More specifically, our work is based on the assumptions that studying human well-being can:
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Explain and predict people’s behaviour impacting the environment
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Help address environmental challenges in ways that work for both people and nature
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Provide tangible indicators for social and environmental justice
Our Research
Our work is guided by a pairing of questions: How do place-based notions of well-being shape the way people interact with nature and in turn, how do interactions shape people’s well-being?
In attempt to answer these broad research questions, our team currently studies this “nature and well-being interaction” in a couple of different thematic contexts:
(1) Well-being implications of equitable climate change adaptation
(2) Impact evaluation of conservation and development initiatives
(3) Leveraging the well-being benefits of outdoor recreation for social and environmental outcomes
Additionally, our lab is passionate about conducting engaging, meaningful research that prioritizes social justice. Much of our work has a methodological focus, as we explore innovative methodologies and approaches to community-based participatory research.
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To learn more about our current projects and publications, check out our research page!
Principles that guide our work
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Well-being is culturally specific and place-based. People's search for the 'good life' drives their actions, behaviours and interactions with their environment
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Social identities shape how we move through the world and issues of justice and equity are inherent to environmental concerns.
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Methods of inquiry should be innovative, creative and prioritize the experience of participants and decision-makers.
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Meaningful science has applied impact. The extra work to make it accessible and useful is a struggle AND worth it!
