Nature engagement provides physical, psychological, and social benefits yet access to and use of local nature sites, parks, and greenspace is not always equitable, particularly for communities of color. These impacted neighborhoods typically have fewer street trees planted, are further from parks and other green spaces and, when parks are nearby, they tend to have poorer equipment that is less well maintained.

Results from a targeted study reveal a complex matrix of external, socioeconomic, and psychological factors that impact nature engagement by YOC. Findings expose larger implications for a call to racial and ethnic diversity, equity, and inclusion within nature engagement.

This discussion will feature the findings of this research from Dr. Rakow et. al as well as highlight the local implications of these barriers.

Learn more about Don Rakow and his work here.

This lecture is hosted in partnership with Trees Atlanta.

Free and open to the public. No registration is required. If you have any questions or concerns about this program, please contact classes@atlantabg.org.

The Philip and Elkin Alston Lecture Series is made possible by generous support from the estate of Elkin Goddard Alston.