{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: The intricate diversity of human-nature relations: Evidence from Finland.
{Author}: Raatikainen KJ;Tupala AK;Niemelä R;Laulumaa AM;
{Journal}: Ambio
{Volume}: 53
{Issue}: 2
{Year}: 2024 Feb 29
{Factor}: 6.943
{DOI}: 10.1007/s13280-023-01933-1
{Abstract}: Supporting sustainability requires understanding human-nature relations, which we approached as social constructions that can be studied through nature-related discourses. We examined human-nature relations in Finland by combining approaches from environmental social sciences and arts-based research into a mixed-methods design. A public online survey (n = 726) and post-performance audience interviews (n = 71) portrayed nature positively. Respondents' ideas of nature ranged from natural scientific to philosophical; from dualistic to holistic; and from ecocentric to anthropocentric. A factor analysis revealed discourses focusing on wellbeing, conservation, ecoanxiety, pro-environmentalism, outdoor activity, and enjoying nature. Interviews added spiritual and over-generational aspects and revealed the importance of embodied experiences in nature relations. We identified dimensions that structure the relations, including human-nature positionality, engagement and contact with nature, and conception and thought. The emotional and experiential aspects, and nature-related practices, deserve further research. We demonstrate how a diversity of human-nature relations co-exists and co-evolves.