Perception of natural ecosystems and urban greenery: Are we afraid of nature?

Authors

  • Jan Frouz Institute for Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Benátská 2, 12800, Praha, Czech Republic; Environment Centre, Charles University, José Martího 407/2, 162 00 Praha, Czech Republic
  • Martina Píšová Institute for Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Benátská 2, 12800, Praha, Czech Republic
  • Jan Urban Environment Centre, Charles University, José Martího 407/2, 162 00 Praha, Czech Republic

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14712/23361964.2022.10

Keywords:

natural ecosystems, protected areas, safety, urbanization, wilderness

Abstract

A set of pictures of natural vegetation in protected areas and urbanized ecosystems were shown to respondents. Protected areas were ranked as natural. Perceived naturalness of ecosystems was positively correlated with the sense of beauty and preference for recreational use, but negatively with the feeling of security. When the respondents rated ecosystems as natural, they also regarded them as more dangerous. A cumulative link mixed model supported the statement that perceived ecosystem naturalness decreased the feeling of safety; this relationship was comparatively weaker among people living in small villages and gardeners.

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Published

2022-12-25

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 2 (2022)

Section

Articles

License

Copyright (c) 2022 Jan Frouz, Martina Píšová, Jan Urban

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