University academics launch new handbook

A new handbook written by University of Derby academics, which explores how community initiatives can nurture the relationship between humans and the natural world, has been launched.

The Nature Connected Communities Handbook, penned by Dr Carly Butler and Professor Miles Richardson, links to their pioneering research on the link between people and nature.

With practical guidance and tips, the handbook, which has been funded by the Wates Family Enterprise, is for organisations, collectives and individuals who want to help grow communities that are better connected with nature.

It also links to online resources and networks that offer support for nature-based community projects.

Dr Butler said: “Improving human-nature relationships is at the heart of what we do in the Nature Connectedness Research Group at the University of Derby.

“Our award-winning research demonstrates how important an individual’s sense of nature connectedness is for their own wellbeing and pro-environmental behaviour and has shaped policy and practice both in the UK and internationally.”

To download a free copy of the Nature Connected Communities Handbook visit https://findingnature.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/nature_connected_communities1.pdf.