Survey: half of UK adults spend less than three hours a week in nature

A new survey of how much time adults in the UK spend with nature has produced a striking picture. According to the Guardian, almost half of adults say they spend less than three hours a week in natural settings such as gardens, parks, fields or woods.

The survey's findings include an even more striking subgroup: one in ten people spend less than one hour a week in nature. The Guardian reports that these figures point to how far modern life has weakened the relationship people have with the outdoors.

By contrast, a large majority of those surveyed carry positive memories of playing outside as children. According to the Guardian, around 90% of adults warmly remember the sense of freedom that experiences such as climbing trees, squelching in mud, paddling in ponds or making dens in the woods brought them.

That contrast forms the central message behind the survey. Drawing on those positive past experiences, wildlife charities are inviting people to reconnect with nature — in a sense, to 'rewild their inner child.'

The possible effects of time spent in nature on mental health and general wellbeing are a subject of growing interest in recent years. Approaches suggesting that spending time outdoors can help with managing stress and physical activity form the backdrop to such campaigns.

In the framing reported by the Guardian, the coexistence of positive childhood memories with low contact with nature in adulthood raises an important question: why are people moving away from an experience they say they value? Time constraints, urban living and screen-based habits are among the possible factors cited.

Another point the campaign emphasises is that access to nature is not equal for everyone. Proximity to green space, transport options and free time can vary between different social groups, which shows that connecting with nature cannot be explained by individual choice alone.

The steps suggested by the charities are generally small and accessible in nature. Short walks, using local parks, or doing outdoor activities together with children are highlighted as practical ways to increase time in contact with nature.

The Guardian's report also implicitly reminds readers that surveys like this reflect trends rather than firm scientific evidence. Even so, the findings are seen as valuable for opening a public discussion about how people's relationship with nature is changing.

This article is for general information and is not a substitute for individual health advice. Those who want to increase time spent outdoors are advised to consult a health professional where necessary for an approach suited to their own circumstances and health.