Nature-based interventions, often abbreviated as NBIs, have proliferated in recent years as policymakers and communities grapple with the twin crises of mental ill-health and environmental degradation. These programmes range from structured green prescriptions issued by health services to participatory science initiatives and community gardening schemes. Despite their wildly different formats, most share two common ambitions: promoting psychological wellbeing and strengthening what researchers call nature connectedness, the subjective sense of closeness to the natural world. Yet the sector has been repeatedly criticised for lacking a consistent evidence base, because countless projects evaluate themselves with different methods shaped by individual funder requirements, producing scattered datasets that cannot be compared, combined, or analysed with any statistical power.

The new study, led by Michael L. Lengieza of Durham University together with Elizabeth Richardson of Natural England and Miles Richardson of the University of Derby, tackles this fragmentation head-on. The team presents a centralised evaluation tool, developed by Natural England, that allows individual projects to administer a standardised survey, enter key features of their programme, and feed participant data into a shared dashboard. Larger organisations gain the ability to combine data across many initiatives, while smaller organisations, which often lack the expertise to design their own evaluations, receive a ready-made solution that removes the burden of survey design, ethics applications, and basic analysis.

As a proof of concept, the researchers pooled data from 75 members of the public who participated in one of eight real-world nature projects and completed both baseline and follow-up surveys. Nature connectedness was measured using an adapted version of the inclusion of nature in self scale alongside the statement-based item measuring how much people feel part of nature, while wellbeing was captured with the Office for National Statistics personal wellbeing questions. Project coordinators also completed a survey describing their programme’s features, including whether they used a recognised delivery framework such as the pathways to nature connectedness.

The results were striking. Using multi-level statistical models with random intercepts for both participants and projects, the team found that nature connectedness increased significantly between the start and end of the programmes across all eight initiatives. But the more revealing discovery emerged when the researchers tested whether the size of that increase depended on programme characteristics. Projects that explicitly employed the pathways to nature connectedness framework, which identifies five routes to connection through sensory contact, emotion, beauty, meaning, and compassion, showed a robust and statistically significant rise in participants’ nature connectedness. Projects that did not use the framework showed only a small, non-significant change, suggesting they might not have been effective at all.

Crucially, the analysis showed that pathways-based and non-pathways-based projects attracted participants with similar baseline levels of nature connectedness, meaning the difference in outcomes could not be explained by one type of programme simply recruiting more devoted nature lovers. The type of engagement, not the type of audience, appeared to make the difference. This pattern aligns closely with the existing academic literature, which has repeatedly shown that actively noticing nature, attending to its beauty, and engaging the senses produce stronger gains than mere time spent outdoors. Analysing any single one of the eight projects in isolation would have been statistically impossible; only the pooled data made the comparison feasible.

The authors are careful to stress what the data cannot show. Because the study lacked experimental control, causality cannot be established. People who seek out nature-connection programmes might be making other lifestyle changes that drive the effect, and programmes using the pathways framework might simply be more enthusiastic or rigorous in ways that matter more than the framework itself. Nevertheless, the researchers note that pre-post time-series designs have a long and respected history in public health evaluation, and that the absence of a change would have more definitively ruled out a causal link. The observed increase, combined with the moderation by framework type, signals exactly where the sector should direct its next wave of controlled experiments and its resources.

The study also offers practical guidance for scaling the approach. Data must include at least one baseline and one follow-up measurement, ideally collected at similar intervals relative to each project’s start and end. Because crowdsourced data will inevitably be noisier than laboratory data, larger samples are essential, and null effects should be interpreted with caution since they may reflect insufficient statistical power rather than a true absence of effect. The tool’s live dashboard, built on Power BI, already gives project managers simple benchmarked summaries of their own performance against the sector, while allowing policymakers and funders to view aggregated results and export datasets for formal analysis.

Looking ahead, the authors envision a modular future for the tool, with optional modules capturing additional outcomes such as physical activity and loneliness, demographic variables, and psychological factors like mindfulness and emotion. They also argue that national and regional bodies, including environmental funders, should move beyond publishing evaluation frameworks and instead provide practical tools that support reporting and data combination. By reducing the evaluation burden on small organisations, the approach frees resources for delivery while building the scalable, policy-relevant evidence base that nature-based interventions need to influence decision-makers at national and international levels, from the Dasgupta Review to the Kunming-Montreal global biodiversity framework.

For a sector long dismissed as fragmented and under-evidenced, the message of this proof of concept is quietly transformative: the collective data of many small initiatives, pooled intelligently, can illuminate what works, guide investment, and ultimately amplify the social and ecological benefits of humanity’s reconnection with nature.

Subject of Research: Crowdsourced evaluation of nature-based interventions using pooled nature connectedness and wellbeing data

Article Title: Amplifying social benefits from multiple nature-based initiatives by crowdsourcing nature connectedness and wellbeing data: A proof of concept

Article References: Lengieza, M. L., Richardson, E., & Richardson, M. (2026). Amplifying social benefits from multiple nature-based initiatives by crowdsourcing nature connectedness and wellbeing data: A proof of concept. Ambio. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13280-026-02472-1

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: 10.1007/s13280-026-02472-1

Keywords: nature connectedness, nature-based interventions, crowdsourcing, programme evaluation, wellbeing, pathways to nature connectedness, Natural England, green prescriptions, environmental psychology, evidence-based practice, biodiversity policy, public health

The concept of sustainable gardening, as articulated in the study, encompasses a variety of techniques and philosophies aimed at reducing environmental impact. This can range from using organic fertilizers to promoting biodiversity by planting native species. The researchers argue that urban women, often primary caregivers and nurturers in their households, play a pivotal role in adopting sustainable practices that could potentially lead to greater ecological awareness in their communities. Their active participation not only fosters a connection with the earth but also leads to improved quality of life.

As presented in the study, the findings suggest that awareness of sustainable gardening techniques among urban women in Lucknow is surprisingly high. Many expressed a desire to incorporate more environmentally friendly practices into their gardening routines, demonstrating a forward-thinking mindset. The research illustrates that these women often juggle multiple responsibilities, emphasizing the dual role they play as homemakers and environmental stewards. This duality is critical to understanding their motives and the barriers they face in embracing sustainable gardening fully.

Furthermore, the research team conducted interviews and questionnaires to gather data that paints a comprehensive picture of the participants’ gardening practices. Results show a strong correlation between personal values and gardening choices. Women who prioritize environmental stewardship tend to engage in more sustainable gardening practices. This finding is significant as it highlights the importance of values-based education in fostering sustainable behavior. Moreover, it raises questions about how values regarding sustainability can be nurtured in younger generations.

The study also sheds light on the challenges faced by urban homemakers when attempting to maintain sustainable gardening practices. Many participants reported facing environmental constraints, such as limited space and access to quality soil. Additionally, economic factors played a role, as some women struggled to afford organic seeds and natural fertilizers. Despite these challenges, the determination displayed by these women suggests a strong resolve to overcome obstacles in pursuit of sustainable gardening.

As the study unfolds, it emphasizes that the motivations for sustainable gardening extend beyond environmental concerns. Many women reported that gardening served as a therapeutic escape from their daily stresses. The act of nurturing plants can create a sense of accomplishment and well-being. Such findings are in line with research indicating that interaction with nature positively influences mental health. Thus, sustainable gardening emerges not only as an eco-friendly practice but also as a technique for personal wellness.

To bolster their findings, Pandey and Verma examine the knowledge transfer methods utilized by these women. Informal networks, including family and community members, act as vital conduits for sharing expertise and experiences related to sustainable gardening. This grassroots knowledge exchange fosters a sense of community, illustrating how societal norms and peer support can significantly enhance the adoption of sustainable practices. This sense of community is essential in bridging the gap between individual actions and collective environmental impact.

Digital platforms are also emerging as influential tools in disseminating knowledge about sustainable gardening. Many women reported using social media to seek information, share gardening tips, and showcase their gardening achievements. This modern approach to knowledge acquisition demonstrates how technology can serve as an ally in the quest for sustainability. It creates a vibrant online community dedicated to sharing sustainable practices, fostering an environment where ideas can flourish.

The research holds crucial implications for policymakers and educational institutions. By understanding the motivations and challenges faced by urban women in sustainable gardening, targeted initiatives can be developed to promote sustainable practices in urban settings. Educational programs that prioritize hands-on experience in gardens, particularly in schools and community centers, can effectively inspire future generations. Furthermore, support systems, such as cooperative purchasing programs for organic materials, could alleviate some of the economic burdens faced by these women.

Equally important is the recognition of traditional gardening practices that have been passed down through generations. Many of the women in the study referenced ancestral knowledge that aligns with modern sustainable practices. This intersection between tradition and modernity presents a unique opportunity for creating culturally relevant sustainability frameworks that resonate with urban populations. By integrating these timeless practices with contemporary sustainability goals, communities can foster a rich understanding of environmental stewardship.

Another interesting facet of the study is the exploration of seasonal variations in gardening practices among urban women. Gardening is not a static practice; it evolves with seasons, presenting unique challenges and opportunities. The researchers found that women often adapt their gardening styles to suit climatic changes, further demonstrating the resilience and ingenuity inherent in sustainable gardening. Such adaptability is crucial as climate change continues to reshape environments across the globe.

Importantly, the call to action emanating from this study emphasizes the urgent need for collective efforts in promoting sustainable gardening. Urban areas, which are often focal points for environmental challenges, can benefit immensely from grassroots initiatives led by dedicated individuals. By empowering women through knowledge, resources, and community support, cities can transform their landscapes into vibrant spaces that prioritize ecology alongside development.

The insights gained from this research underscore the potential of urban women homemakers as change agents in the sustainability movement. By championing their efforts and providing the necessary tools and support, society can harness their influence to promote environmental awareness and stewardship. The journey toward a sustainable future is inherently collaborative, with urban women poised to play a crucial role in nurturing both their gardens and their communities.

In conclusion, the pioneering study by Pandey and Verma serves as a testament to the critical intersection between urban living and sustainable practices. The findings not only celebrate the resilience of urban women homemakers but also pave the way for innovative approaches to sustainability and community engagement. As urban areas continue to grow, understanding the motivations and challenges faced by those who nurture their green spaces will be essential in cultivating a sustainable legacy for future generations.

Subject of Research: Sustainable Gardening Among Urban Women Homemakers in Lucknow

Article Title: Knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding sustainable gardening: a study among urban women homemakers in Lucknow, India.

Article References: Pandey, B., Verma, S. Knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding sustainable gardening: a study among urban women homemakers in Lucknow, India. Discov Sustain 6, 1082 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s43621-025-01415-2

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: 10.1007/s43621-025-01415-2

Keywords: sustainable gardening, urban women homemakers, environmental stewardship, community engagement, ecological awareness, Lucknow.