Nature engagement has been studied for its psychological and physiological benefits, yet much of the research in this area is based in Western, temperate contexts. This limits our understanding of how cultural, climatic, and structural factors may influence how people connect with nature and its impacts, in diverse cultural and environmental contexts worldwide. This study explores how individuals in the UK, South Africa, India, Argentina, and Saudi Arabia experience outdoor environments in everyday life.


This study used a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative survey items with open-ended qualitative responses (N = 102).


Quantitative findings showed that gardens and markets were universally valued, whilst coastlines and deserts reflected local geography. Free days increased outdoor time across all countries, and social patterns varied.


Thematic analysis of the qualitative data revealed three overarching themes:
(1) Restoration and Well-being - where participants described nature as a source of emotional relief, clarity, and peace,
(2) Sensory Experiences and Nature Connection - highlighting multisensory, aesthetic, and spiritual interactions with outdoor spaces,
(3) Balancing Outdoor Engagement with Daily Life - revealing tensions between desire and reality, shaped by work, safety, weather, infrastructure, and socio-cultural expectations.


Overall, the results show that whilst the desire to connect with nature is universal , the opportunity to do so is influenced by factors such as gender, urban design, climate, and cultural norms which can either hinder or facilitate access to outdoor environments. Simple everyday forms of nature engagement, like walking the dog or noticing birdsong, were often the most consistent and meaningful to participants. These findings highlight the importance of designing inclusive, culturally relevant, and supportive environments that make outdoor time easier and more accessible for everyone.