How can our relationship with nature support both human well-being and more sustainable ways of living? This question was at the heart of the Act with Nature research project, whose key findings will be presented in the webinar From Nature Connection to Action on 28 May 2026.
The webinar brings together researchers, practitioners, and policymakers interested in nature-based approaches to well-being and sustainability. Drawing on research from Finland and the United Kingdom, the Act with Nature project examines how experiences of nature, environment-related emotions, and the structured Act with Nature intervention can support both personal and planetary well-being.
The event begins with an introduction to the project and its broader aims. The first presentation highlights a cross-country comparison of people’s favourite nature places in the UK and Finland. These “nature spots that matter” reveal how everyday environments, from forests and coastlines to local parks, can support psychological well-being.
Another key theme of the webinar focuses on environment-related emotions. The research shows that emotions connected to environmental change can play an important role in motivating pro-environmental behaviour while also shaping people’s psychological well-being.
The webinar will also introduce the Act with Nature intervention, developed and implemented in both Finland and the UK. This nature-based group intervention aims to strengthen participants’ well-being while encouraging meaningful engagement with the environment. Findings from the randomized controlled trial suggest that engaging in nature-based exercises can promote individual well-being and sustainable behaviour change, thereby contributing to planetary well-being.
Julija Chichaeva
PT, PhD candidate, JAMK University of Applied Sciences
Julija Chichaeva, physiotherapist, health scientist, and PhD candidate, works as a researcher at the Rehabilitation Institute, JAMK University of Applied Sciences, focusing on nature-based interventions to enhance well-being, sustainable behavior, and planetary well-being.
The event concludes with a discussion session where participants can reflect on the implications of the findings for research, practice, and policy.
Together, these insights highlight how fostering meaningful relationships with nature may help move societies from connection toward action in support of a more sustainable future.
The webinar will be held in English.
You can register for the webinar here: https://link.webropolsurveys.com/EP/1B22F1CC790AEB52
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