This page is part of the Guide to Disaster Recovery Capitals. The seven recovery capitals are deeply interrelated – click through to explore them all.
WHAT WE KNOW
Many disasters damage the natural environment, causing grief for many people(3). Others, such as pandemics, can impact mental health by restricting connection with nature(4,5). However the regeneration of nature can provide solace, and connection to the natural environment has been associated with better post-disaster mental health and wellbeing(3–6). For Aboriginal peoples these experiences can be particularly profound due to the deep connections between land, culture, history, colonisation and identity(7,8).
WHAT WE KNOW
There is growing evidence of the physical, psychological, and spiritual health impacts from the threat of climate change (including ‘ecoanxiety’ and ‘solastalgia’)(9,10). Further investigation of the interplay with disaster recovery is needed, given the importance of a sense of safety, hope and self- and community-efficacy in recovery(11).
WHAT WE KNOW
Certain features of the natural environment can increase exposure to risk e.g. proximity to bushland or floodplains(12–14). The natural environment can also pose barriers to recovery e.g. lack of services in remote locations(15); insurance difficulties in high-risk areas(16); lack of financial resources for recovery if local industries such as tourism are highly dependent on the natural environment(17).
WHAT WE KNOW
Restoration of and reconnection with the natural environment can be a source of solace(3–5). It can also provide other benefits including financial boost to local economies(17).
WHAT WE KNOW
Connection to the natural environment is an important part of people’s sense of place, and as such people may be more likely to remain in the community after a disaster event(6,18).
Decisions about relocation may be further complicated for Aboriginal peoples whose rights, interest and connection to Country remain specific to the disaster-affected area(8), and who may experience negative effects of relocating including an inability to maintain proper relations with Country(19,20).
This resource has been developed through the Recovery Capitals (ReCap) project.
Artwork on this page by Oslo Davis and Frances Belle Parker.
Please contact Phoebe Quinn with any comments or enquiries: (03) 8344 3097, phoebeq@unimelb.edu.au or info-beyondbushfires@unimelb.edu.au.
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