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New study boosts need for
A new university study has shown how our wellbeing is boosted when we visit healthy , nature-rich blue spaces like rivers and coastal areas .
The findings , by the University of Exeter , strengthen the calls by British Canoeing and other outside recreational bodies , for more access to our waterways .
The report concluded that positive wellbeing results from visits to blue spaces which are “ high quality and safe ”.
The visits have to be “ several hours in duration ” near to home and involve activities such as “ walking , socialising , or playing with children ”.
Anyone who has paddled , swam , or simply been beside a river or at a coastal area , will have felt better in some way and the study confirms this .
Researchers surveyed more than 18,000 people in 18 countries and identified what factors give the biggest wellbeing boost when visiting nature spots near water .
They found that wellbeing outcomes are better when blue environments are closer to home .
It follows government plans for everyone to live within 15 minutes ’ walk of a green space or water .
This was part of its Environmental Improvement Plan , launched in January 2023 .
Dr Jo Garrett , Research Fellow at The University of Exeter , said the government goal was “ great news ”, but making the most of these visits to get the best mental health benefits was crucial .
Water quality remains a major issue and British Canoeing does not feel government targets , set out in the Environment Act 2021 , are currently rigorous enough .
If a local river is polluted it will not have the required effect on wellbeing , Dr Garrett confirmed .
Dr Garrett said : “ This study shows that not all visits are equal – the quality of time spent outdoors really does make a difference .
“ The government definition of a green space doesn ’ t currently include any mention of quality , so we ’ d argue they could go a step further .
“ After all , living close to inaccessible green space , or a polluted river , doesn ’ t offer much in the way of boosting wellbeing .”
The study found that activities that people engage in are important too , with the largest benefits to mental health linked to playing with children , socialising and walking .
With this in mind , paddling , whether that be in a canoe , kayak , or stand up paddleboard , is the perfect activity . www . britishcanoeing . org . uk
The research said the quality of experiences also plays a role , and the spaces have to be safe with good water quality .