Positive Psychology and Biodiversity Conservation by Burke, Jolanta; Clarke, Darren; O'Keeffe, Jimmy;

Short description:

This book reveals how pro-environmental actions can boost individuals’ and communities’ wellbeing, as well as resulting in positive environmental changes. It will be essential reading for students and scholars of biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, ecosystem services and environmental psychology.

Long description:

This book reveals how pro‑environmental actions can boost individuals’ and communities’ psychological, social, and emotional wellbeing, resulting in positive environmental changes.

Pro‑environmental actions are often viewed as being motivated by anxiety, shame, or anger. However, emerging research indicates that they can also become a source of positive affect, life meaning, engagement, and other wellbeing outcomes. This book turns the current research and practice of pro‑environmental action on its head. Drawing from the field of positive psychology, a rapidly developing science of wellbeing, the book explores new perspectives on how researchers and practitioners can influence engagement in pro‑environmental initiatives. It provides ways in which individuals passionate about the environment can reframe their feelings and thoughts and allow their newly gained perspective to improve their wellbeing, and outlines approaches to support and encourage those less motivated to engage in pro‑environmental actions. The book draws on research from the biodiversity project called Let It Bee, but also looks at examples of other pro‑environmental research, such as water conservation, recycling, and reducing the consumption of meat. This book can be used as a guide for changing how stakeholders motivate people to engage in pro‑environmental action.

This book will be essential reading for students and scholars of biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, ecosystem services, and environmental psychology.

"This important book offers a comprehensive examination of the link between environmental conservation and wellbeing. It delves into how eco-friendly practices improve both community ties and individual mental health. The authors show that caring for the environment and biodiversity enriches our lives with purpose and happiness, utilising theories and practical examples from positive psychology. It illuminates the links between environment, psychology and wellbeing in an accessible way and will be a valuable resource for academics, students and practitioners."

Professor Conor Murphy, Department of Geography, Maynooth University, Ireland.

"An essential read for anyone invested in the intricate dynamics of water systems, this book offers a compelling case for holistic understanding and community-driven action. Through insightful analysis and captivating examples like the Let it Bee project, the authors underscore the urgent need to view rivers and their surroundings through a broader, systems perspective —one that encompasses environmental health and human well-being. Whether you're a student, practitioner, policy maker, or scientist, this interdisciplinary gem will inspire you to join the quest for community-led solutions towards brighter future for the deeply intertwined human-water systems."

Dr Ana Mijic, Reader in Water Systems Integration and Director of the Centre for Systems Engineering and Innovation, Imperial College London, UK.

"In a world where we are often siloed by our personal preferences and careers, this book brings together perspectives from the disciplines of positive psychology, engineering, and science. It gives a good insight into how helping to protect and enhance biodiversity, and the environment can have a really positive impact on your personal wellbeing."

Barry Deane, CEO, National Federations of Group Water Schemes, Ireland.

"This thought-provoking and timely book delves into the profound connections between positive psychology, wellbeing, and pro-environmental endeavours. By illuminating how our mental health and connection to nature are inextricably bound, the authors offer invaluable insights and practical strategies for fostering the synergies between individual flourishing and collective environmental stewardship. The book is a must-read for anyone seeking to promote personal and planetary thriving in the face of global challenges."

Dr Andrea Giraldez-Hayes, Chartered Psychology and Staff Wellbeing Manager at Imperial College London, UK.

"This book is an absolute must-read for anyone seeking inspiration to build a better world for themselves and for our planet. The authors present an optimistic and transformative perspective on pro-environmental efforts through the lens of positive psychology. Enriching the discourse with empirical evidence and firsthand testimonies, they foster a holistic approach to environmental activism that promises enhanced wellbeing for individuals, families, and communities alike."

Dr Pawel Fortuna, Katolicki Uniwersytet Lubelski, Experimental Psychology Department, Lublin, Poland.

Table of Contents:

Part 1: The foundations  1. The need for change: An introduction  2. Pro-environmental actions and wellbeing  3. Natural vs Urban environments vis-à-vis health and wellbeing  Part 2: Individuals’ wellbeing, pro-environmental behaviour and biodiversity  4. Environment in the context of illbeing and wellbeing  5. Individual emotional wellbeing  6. Individuals’ psychological wellbeing  7. Mindsets as guideposts for wellbeing  Part 3: The impact of wellbeing within broader social pro-environmental networks  8. Family’s health and wellbeing  9. Community health and wellbeing  10. The future of pro-environmental actions, health and wellbeing