Environmental psychologists, working in a branch of psychology related to the impact on us in our place in the world, speak about feelings of connection to outdoor environments and how it can strongly increase a person’s appreciation and care for nature. When people feel emotionally connected to a place, they begin to see it as meaningful rather than just a location to visit.
It is the reason why many people go on holidays to the same destination for many years. They develop an emotional attachment (called place attachment by psychologists). Because the place feels meaningful to them, they are more likely to appreciate its beauty and want it protected. Places like Forster, in the beautiful Great Lakes area of NSW, attracts many visitors each year who are regular visitors, often for many generations within a family.
Positive experiences in outdoor environments often create strong memories. In an area like Forster, these memories might be simple pleasures like catching fish, jumping off rocks into the ocean or swimming in some of the beautiful beaches. These memories and positive experiences can lead to a strong connection, often meaning that people feel responsible for caring for their special place. This can lead to positive interactions within the environment such as ensuring that no rubbish is left behind or supporting conservation efforts (see Leave no Trace and Minimum Impact Practices).