Nature vs technology

It’s easy to think of nature and technology as two conflicting entities. On the surface, there is perhaps truth in that assumption. Not only does technological expansion often come at the direct expense of the natural world, but there are also environmentalists who are concerned about an over-reliance on technology to claw ourselves out of the climate and nature crises.

We like to take a more hopeful view, and have been thinking about ways that tech can help us connect with nature. Some are fairly simple and accessible, like having photos of green or blue spaces to help replicate the stress-busting power of nature in our homes and workspaces. Listening to nature soundscapes can help us tune out external noise and get a good night’s sleep.

Taking things a step further, technology can also help us to forge a deeper connection with nature as well as unlocking our creativity. You might be aware that the BBC has a free-to-use online sound library, so you could fill the dark winter nights by learning more about your favourite wildlife species or creating your own nature soundtrack.

Finally, for all its ills, social media is fantastic for connecting people through nature and fostering a sense of community – see groups like Muslim Hikers, the UK Youth for Nature Network, and of course your friendly local Rivers Trust. Getting involved with groups can nurture our physical, mental and social health.

The increasing role of technology in our world is undeniable, but that doesn’t mean nature lovers need despair. At The Rivers Trust we firmly believe that an understanding of nature and connection with it are connected in a virtuous circle. We are constantly exploring new opportunities to work with technology in our efforts to connect more people with our precious rivers.

The Rivers Trust are conservation experts with a wealth of data and expertise at our fingertips. Through our network of local Trusts, we work in partnership at a catchment scale to make our shared vision of wild, healthy, natural rivers, valued by all a reality. Visit theriverstrust.org.