Building a culture of conservation: Research findings and research priorities on connecting people to nature in parks

Simultaneously, there is mounting scientific evidence that the ecological health of the planet is declining (IPCC, 2014) including the ecological integrity of parks and protected areas (Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS), 2013; OAGBC, 2010; Office of the Auditor General of Canada, 2013; Parks Canada Agency, 2011). As a result, connecting people to nature and building political support for parks and conservation issues have become priorities for park and conservation organizations.