A new research project to understand the human benefits of picking up rubbish has been launched by environmental not-for-profit Trash Free Trails (TFT).

As part of a knowledge transfer partnership (KTP) between the UK-wide organisation and Edinburgh Napier University (ENU), academics will explore and quantify the social, psychological and community benefits of litter picking.

Entitled, Roots to (Re)Connection, it is hoped the study will showcase for the first time how invaluable environmental volunteering is as a stepping stone towards wider environmental benefits.

It will build on previous research into the impacts of trail litter, which has found that UK ranks as one of the lowest countries in the world for nature connectedness. Disconnection from nature is considered a primary underlying cause of nature degradation.

The multi-year project, supported by ENU, will see TFT undertake participatory research in nature connectedness, host trail cleans, and produce a report highlighting the power of environmental volunteering in turning the tide for nature.

TFT’s Associate Director Rich Breeden said:

“We have known for a long time that the act of trail cleaning can boost our connection to nature, but exactly how this happens and the long-term benefits of it for the individual - this hasn’t been explored by any research or organisation.

“Our new research project will fill that knowledge gap.

“The benefits of picking up rubbish are felt far more widely than just by the place you clean up. It’s good for our mental health, for bringing communities together, but also for enabling individuals with information, information and tools to take action for nature in other ways.”

“We know that boosting our connection with nature is invaluable to growing more public support for wider environmental action. Litter picking isn’t an isolated act - it’s the perfect first step.”

To launch the project, TFT are encouraging individuals to respond to a micro-survey on their website.

Pictures credit: Rich Baybutt

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships with Edinburgh Napier University

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