Humanity is currently following a deeply unsustainable path. It has been argued that an important reason behind this unsustainability is the existing disconnection between humans and nature. Diminishing levels of human-nature interactions and lack of knowledge and understanding of the fundamental role of nature as the basis for human wellbeing are important factors that contribute towards this disconnection.  In this study, we focus on Posidonia oceanica an endemic seagrass species in the Mediterranean which crucially contributes to the maintenance of species, functions and ecosystems services. We present a comparative pan-Mediterranean study, across 6 countries, on 3749 children aged 11-16 where we explored how their knowledge on Posidonia, perceptions and values (intrinsic, instrumental and relational) are tightly linked to the institutional and cultural context of each of the areas explored. We show how contextual aspects such as the level of legislation on Posidonia, the promotion of scientific research, the integration of environmental programs in school education, the intensity of embeddedness in culture and different forms of art and the implication of NGOs, are fundamental determinants in promoting a healthy and appreciative connection to the environment and hence supporting its sustainable use. 

Primary Presenter: Ana Ruiz-Frau, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (anaruiz@imedea.uib-csic.es)

Authors:

Ana Ruiz-Frau,   ()

Simona Bussotti,   ()

C. Brossard,   ()

S. Escartín,   ()

Gouraguine A.,   ()

Enma Ben Lamine,   ()

A. Marguin,   ()

A. Ospina-Alvarez,   ()

A. Varenne,   ()

P. Ventura,   ()

Francesca Rossi,   ()