title: Improving Wellbeing and Environmental Stewardship Through Volunteering in Nature.
abstract: Environmental volunteering (EV) can provide a unique way to optimise the wellbeing of participants while fostering environmental stewardship. However, the potential of EV to create human health benefits remains an under-researched area. This study provides evidence for improved wellbeing and mood state for 32 participants from diverse backgrounds undertaking EV activities. Most participants also reported improved environmental stewardship with a greatly improved understanding of the environment and the need to conserve it. Other benefits included: 31% of those seeking work obtained it; and 50% joined a volunteer group at program completion. EV provides a unique mechanism to enhance the wellbeing of the participants, while conserving the environment.
authors.affiliation: Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources, 35 Dauncey Street, Kingscote, Kangaroo Island, SA, 5223, Australia. robyn.molsher@sa.gov.au.
authors.forename: Robyn
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Molsher
authors.affiliation: School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia.
authors.forename: Mardie
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Townsend
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D004777:Environment; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013021:South Australia; D014838:Volunteers / Q000523:psychology*
keywords: environmental; nature; volunteering; wellbeing