The report from NatureScot looked at the impact of social distancing in Wave 3 of the pandemic, September 2021. 

In Wave 3 we have observed the continuing importance of local greenspace, strong levels of outdoor participation, sustained evidence of people benefitting from nature, and signs that a new normal may be emerging in terms of outdoor behaviour (with many results exhibiting similar patterns to the data collected in Wave 2, conducted at the same time a year earlier).

The data indicates an encouraging willingness among some people to engage in pro-environmental behaviours, such as  making their outdoor space more nature-friendly or participating in volunteering. The results from the latest wave suggest that the population is increasingly gaining and recognising the wellbeing benefits of time spent outdoors.

On a less positive note, the data also evidences inequalities when it comes to accessing and engaging with our natural environment, as well as in people’s experiences of the pandemic more generally (i.e. economic impact, working patterns, and so on).

The report raises some question regarding what longer term changes might we see in the future? how will people use their local greenspaces in the future? How will people engage with nature in the future?

Find out more and read the report

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greenspace scotland and The National Lottery Heritage Fund have produced two guides to help local authorities, other greenspace managers and user groups to manage and use parks, gardens and greenspaces safely during the coronavirus pandemic.