Stepping Out - the benefits of the Great Outdoors

We are frequently told that an active life in the great outdoors can benefit both our physical and mental well being. A recent study from Glasgow University reported that access to green spaces can help reduce health inequalities between the rich and poor . Yet what value does the public place on the natural environment and what opportunities are there to make greater use of these resources?

Quality of Life

An Ipsos MORI survey for Natural England shows the relative importance to our quality of life of spending time in green spaces. Two in three people (67%) feel it is crucial or very important to our quality of life, while a further 25% feel it is fairly important.

The survey also shows a high level of commitment to the natural environment, with one in three people (34%) claiming to be a member of an environmental organisation.

A Natural Health Service

In addition to quality of life, the public recognise the wider health benefits that the natural environment can deliver. Research for Natural England (April 2008) shows strong support for the idea of Doctors prescribing outdoor exercise as opposed to drugs where appropriate. Nearly all of the public (94%) feel it is a good idea (either very or fairly good) while two in three members of the public (63%) feel this is a very good idea.

More recent research for Natural England shows the importance of access to green space in making such a proposition viable. Indeed, 85% of those who walk for exercise or enjoyment, or who would consider doing so, say they would find it motivating to take a walk in the countryside, compared to 73% for parks (and other green spaces in towns and cities) and 27% along town or city streets.

Importance of protecting the environment in encouraging access

In addition to issues around access to green space, we need to ensure we protect the natural environment to ensure it is a desirable place for people to visit. Recent Ipsos MORI research on behalf of the Environment Agency showed that almost half of us would be much more likely to visit the water environment (including rivers, lakes and the sea) if the water was clean (49%) and there was healthy wildlife living in and around the water environment (45%).

In summary, the public value the natural environment and recognise many of the opportunities it brings. Given this evidence, there is a strong case to continue to invest in access to, and the protection of, green spaces so we can ensure these opportunities are maximised. In so doing we can make a positive contribution to the nation’s health and happiness.