Aiming to stop the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, governments across Europe are advising – or requiring – people to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.

According to the World Health Organization, the lockdown measures will have a negative impact on people’s mental health, but just how important is access to the outdoors for one’s overall well-being?

In 2017, IEEP produced a briefing that explores the links between access to nature and health. The evidence collected by our researchers shows that access to nature is vital for good mental and physical health at all ages.

The briefing note presents key insights, practical examples of how nature access contributes to better health and equity, and identifies possible solutions for stakeholders. It builds on earlier work by IEEP on the health and social benefits of nature.