Take part in new research investigating the effects of climate change on outdoor activities

Forest Research, in partnership with the University of Exeter’s Centre for Net Positive Health and Climate Solutions, is leading a new study investigating outdoor nature-based recreation, health and climate change. 

How you can get involved

Forest Research is looking for organisations and specialists focused on nature-based recreation, for example mountain biking, walking, water sports or wild swimming to be interviewed. This includes: 

• Land managers 

• Health and safety practitioners linked to nature-based initiatives 

• Recreational membership organisations 

• Recreational businesses 

The anonymous interviews will be conducted online and will take approximately 40 minutes.  

Why this research matters

Outdoor nature-based recreation and connection with nature have been shown to provide many benefits for people’s mental, physical and social wellbeing. However, changes in the climate bring potential increases in the intensity of rainfall, heat, drought, fire and wind and have the potential to impact outdoor nature-based recreation both positively and negatively in the United Kingdom. 

Liz O’Brien, Forest Research said: “Our research will look at changes in nature-based recreation patterns brought about by weather extremes linked to climate change.  We will explore what this means for people’s health and wellbeing as well as for land managers who may need to change some of their management practices.”  

She continued: “For example, there could be increased visits to forests during heatwaves so that people can keep cool, or fewer visits for outdoor recreation with increased intensive rainfall or storms. There may be more trips to the coast, lakes, and rivers to take a dip and cool down in the heat but fewer visits in stormy weather. So, the extremes of weather we are experiencing due to changes in the climate might lead to changes in the types of nature-based recreation people undertake, as well as where and when they carry it out.”   

Working closely with organisations and specialists that focus on nature-based recreation, as well as members of the public who make use of outdoor activities, opportunities will be identified to manage change and explore potential future solutions.  

If you’re able to take part, please contact liz.obrien@forestresearch.gov.uk and bethan.stagg@forestresearch.gov.uk to find out more.