Project
Public support for nature policy is strong, but slightly decreasing
This longitudinal research aims at gaining insight in (i) the public support base for nature conservation policy and (ii) participation in nature activities among Dutch citizens.
In 2013 a representative survey has been carried out, in which 1500 citizens participated. This longitudinal study shows that many citizens attach great value to nature conservation, regularly spend time in natural areas and engage in activities relating to nature and the landscape. Only a limited proportion are actively engaged in citizens’ initiatives regarding natural areas in their residential environment. Compared to the previous edition of the survey (2006), the support for policy measures has decreased slightly; people have become more positive about the availability of natural areas in the Netherlands, and they are more likely to spend time in natural areas.
For more information see the report (De Boer et al. 2014)
Boer, T.A. de; Blaeij, A.T. de; Elands, B.H.M.; Bakker, H.C.M. de; Koppen, C.S.A. van; Buijs, A.E. (2014). Maatschappelijk draagvlak voor natuur en natuurbeleid in 2013. Wageningen : Wettelijke Onderzoekstaken Natuur & Milieu, Wageningen UR, 2014 (WOt-rapport 126) - p. 83
Related information: More information (only in Dutch) about public support can be found here