The Effects of Biodiversity and Natural Environment on Satisfaction

Abstract

This project focused on how the nature in city neighbourhoods influences the happiness of residents. Residents of Ottawa (n=1035) were surveyed about their life satisfaction and their thoughts of the environment surrounding their homes. The survey responses were compared to nature near their homes, including bird diversity, tree canopy cover, and distance to water. Neighbourhood satisfaction was positively related to bird species richness, even before participants were prompted to consider nature. In addition, satisfaction with the local nature increased with bird species richness and tree canopy cover. The quality rating of local nature in comparison to other areas increased with tree canopy cover and nearness to water. Nature was considered more important when choosing where to live for participants living in neighborhoods with high tree canopy cover and close to water. The results create a compelling argument for city planners to maintain urban nature.