In a groundbreaking
research initiative, the RSPB, with leading academics at the University of
Essex, is creating the first ever baseline of connection to nature amongst UK
children.
This comes as a result
of growing concerns over generations of children with little or no contact with
the natural world and with wildlife. Interestingly, this disconnection is seen
as one of the biggest threats to nature.
This new approach will
be used with 8 to 12-year olds across the UK, with the first baseline data to
be announced next spring; andthen measured at two yearly intervals.
Mike Clarke, RSPB Chief
Executive, says; ‘This is ground-breaking stuff. It’s widely accepted
that today’s children have less contact with nature than ever before, but until
now there has been no robust scientific attempt to measure and track connection
to nature among children in the UK, which means the problem hasn’t been given
the attention it deserves.
‘Without the opportunity
and encouragement to get outdoors and connect with nature, children are missing
out on so many benefits that previous generations have enjoyed; and it’s
putting the future of our wildlife and natural environment at risk.’
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