Sadly, almost half (48%) of those from the North West region would prefer to shut themselves away than embrace nature and enjoy the outdoors.
In addition to this, given the choice, 12% would choose an indoor activity such as online shopping, scrolling/ socialising through social media, or cooking at home, rather than engaging with local outdoor environments. This, despite half of those from the region (50%) admitting they lived just a five minute walk from their local park or green space.
The research was commissioned by Nat Geo WILD to celebrate the launch of Wild October on the channel. Nat Geo WILD’s aim is to excite people’s passion for animals and the world we share with them, taking viewers on unforgettable journeys into the wild.
Although we’re aware of the mental and physical benefits we experience from getting outside, with 48% feeling healthier, happier (42%) and over a third (38%) feeling more alive, we decide not to reconnect with nature, due to effort of changing in to appropriate clothing (9%) and lack of companionship (13%) holding us back.
Liz Bonnin, Wildlife TV Presenter and spokesperson for Nat Geo WILD said: “Sadly, a lot of people increasingly experience a lack of connection with the natural world, especially when they live in urban environments. Nat Geo WILD wants to inspire city dwellers to get back to nature, and that can only be a good thing.”
Although we are a nation that prefers to keep a local park at arm’s length, we’re not opposed to bringing the outdoors indoors. With a spike in terrarium popularity, it is clear we’re looking to surround ourselves with more greenery, as more than half (64%) of those from the region own a houseplant and 57% confessed to chatting to our green friends.
Nat Geo WILD will be kicking off Wild October on 1st October, with Paradise Islands hitting screens at 6pm; a stunning new series that explores the many islands that lie between Asia and Australia. These wildlife hotspots are some of the most biologically diverse areas on Earth, boasting stunning landscapes and a fascinating array of creatures.