Exploring the impact of foraging as a nature-based activity on human and ecological wellbeing

The outcomes of this project will be of interest to scholars interested in food systems, health/wellbeing, behaviour change, and sustainability. Key contributions will include 1. One of the first empirical documentations of the effects of foraging activities on human and ecological wellbeing. Establishing the evidence base for the practice as a form of social intervention, 2. Development of understandings concerning the optimal forms of nature engagement to promote human and ecological wellbeing. I.e., can foraging deliver larger benefits than other forms of engagement such as walking or being mindful in nature, 3. Development of psychological theory surrounding the pathways through which foraging comes to deliver its beneficial effects, 4. Documentation of the antecedents to the decision to engage in foraging activities. To be used to inform behaviour change theory and corresponding strategies.Practically, findings will be valuable to conservation organisations, businesses, healthcare professionals, and policymakers. The Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 emphasizes
the need to create "cohesive communities," "healthy functioning ecosystems," and "a society in which people's physical and mental well-being is maximised." One outcome of this project will be an accessible toolkit containing recommendations for stakeholders surrounding how best to implement foraging activities and measure their impact.