A major survey conducted by the University of Exeter and the University of Surrey has uncovered strong public support in the United Kingdom for policies aimed at protecting and restoring nature. Researchers interviewed nearly 3,000 people across the country to understand their feelings, concerns, opinions, and experiences with nature. More than 75% of respondents expressed concern about the potential loss of wild animals and plants in the U.K., and 57% believe that wildlife diversity will decrease over the next 25 years. The survey found widespread support for a variety of environmental policies. For instance, 68% of people back stricter regulations on home construction and infrastructure to protect natural areas, while 66% support subsidies for farmers and wildlife charities to help nature recovery. Additionally, 73% of respondents favor planting more trees in urban areas. These findings, from the ACCESS project, indicate that the U.K. public is likely to continue supporting policies aimed at addressing the loss of nature in the future. Dr. Alice Moseley of the University of Exeter emphasized that the results are highly relevant for policymakers, providing new insights into public support for various policies and management practices. She noted that concern about nature loss translates into backing for national conservation targets, with around two-thirds of respondents supporting the U.K.’s goal to protect 30% of land and sea for nature by 2030. Professor Birgitta Gatersleben from the University of Surrey added that there is support for actions that landowners, land managers, and public bodies can take, such as mowing grass less often, planting more trees, and reintroducing certain animal species. These findings could influence how local authorities, national park authorities, and nature agencies approach the protection and management of natural spaces. The survey also highlighted differences in opinions based on demographics. For example, women, older individuals, those on the political left, and people with higher education levels were more likely to worry about the loss of wildlife diversity. Support for national nature targets and optimism about achieving them also varied by group, with parents and city dwellers expressing more optimism. The researchers recommend that messaging and interventions be tailored to specific groups where possible. Key findings indicate that over 65% of U.K. respondents have an "ecocentric" mindset, meaning they recognize the intrinsic value of nature beyond its usefulness to humans. This suggests that policy communications should highlight benefits to nature itself, not just to people. The top environmental concerns included pollution of rivers, seas, and lakes, plastic pollution, the growing amount of waste, and deforestation. While many people access nature through gardens and urban parks, financial and practical barriers often prevent access to other natural areas, highlighting ongoing inequalities in nature access. The researchers encourage the government, landowners, and charities to work toward reducing these disparities.