fostering a relationship with nature through placemaking
Image from University of Derby’s Nature Connection Handbook.
fostering a relationship with nature through placemaking
Developing a deep connection with nature is vital for our well-being and helps nurture a collective sense of care for and custodianship of the environment. According to Derby University’s five pathways—contact, beauty, meaning, emotion, and compassion—simple acts like observing wildlife, creating art with natural materials, or journaling reflections about the natural world can foster these bonds. However, to truly live in harmony with the natural environment, we can also understand and engage with the concept of place.
What Is Place and Placemaking?
Place refers to the unique identity, story, and emotional significance of a physical environment shaped by the interactions between people and nature. Placemaking is a collaborative process that encourages communities to shape their environments into meaningful spaces where culture, ecology, and creativity thrive. By considering the history, people, and natural elements of a location, placemaking fosters stronger relationships between individuals and their environments.
Engaging with Nature and Place in Margaret River
Awe-inspiring Margaret River, with its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and deep Indigenous history, offers abundant opportunities to connect people and nature through placemaking. Here are some ideas:
Nature Restoration: Collaborating on the restoration of bushland and native habitats through community planting projects strengthens ecological awareness and collective pride in local ecosystems.
Cultural Storytelling: Connecting with or inviting local Indigenous elders to share knowledge about the land fosters a respectful relationship with both its history and its future.
Seasonality: Bringing intentional awareness to the different seasons (and their arrival and departure) in our local environment can contribute to deepening our sense of place and connection to nature. Try learning more about the indigenous understanding and knowledge of seasons in your local area.
By interweaving principles of nature connection and placemaking, individuals and communities can build living relationships with their environment—ones rooted in understanding, respect, and shared experiences. These actions benefit both personal well-being and environmental stewardship, creating vibrant, meaningful spaces for generations to come.
Explore more ideas for nature-based activities here.
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