A shocking one in five people living in a city feel detached from nature, with some unable to remember the last time they encountered a farm animal.
According to a recent report, nearly half of urban residents confess that their only outdoor activities are quick trips to the shops or sports-related outings. This limited exposure to nature has left a fifth feeling estranged from the natural world.
The scarcity of easily accessible green spaces makes these trips even more rare as city residents typically have to travel two miles to find a park, recreational area or sports field.
This is a stark contrast to those living in rural areas, who usually have outdoor spaces within half a mile of their homes and enjoy the privilege of having woodlands and rivers within walking distance.
The research, commissioned by Nestle UK and Ireland, surveyed 1000 adults – half residing in rural areas and half in cities.
It found that despite over two thirds of adults recognising that spending time in nature enhances their mood and promotes relaxation, nearly a third of city dwellers hadn’t visited the countryside in six months or more.
Nestlé UK and Ireland joined forces with First Milk, a regenerative dairy co-operative, to transform a space in Shoreditch, London, in an effort to bring a piece of the countryside to the city.
Dr Emma Keller, Nestlé’s head of sustainability, said: “We know how important the countryside is, not just for our mental wellbeing but also how much we depend on it for the food and drink we produce here.”
She elaborated that the initiative was designed to bring a piece of British farmland to the city, providing an escape from urban life but to also highlight the significance of farmers and their farms.
The ‘Farm Drop’ experience aimed to transport the serene farmlands of Cumbria and Ayrshire, home to the cows producing milk for Nestlé’s products, right into the heart of the city.
“We hope the Farm Drop gave visitors a sense of what rural life has to offer,” commented Mark Booking, chief impact officer at First Milk.
Dr Keller added: “Through the partnership with First Milk, we work hand-in-hand with dairy farmers, blending modern and traditional farming methods to produce millions of litres of fresh milk.
“It goes on to be used in our chocolate bars and coffee, including incentive payments for farmers to work on specific initiatives to protect and enhance the natural assets of their land.”