Research Statement

My research has focused on the relation between human and natural systems, particularly the role of natural process and diversity in human physical and mental well being and development. This focus has been manifest in studies on:

• The biocultural basis and expression of human values of nature (‘biophilia’).
  
• Values and perceptions of the natural environment.
  
• The relation of the health and integrity of natural systems to human environmental values and socioeconomic behaviors.
  
• The role of childhood experience of nature in maturation and development.
  
• Nature in the built environment – known as ‘biophilic design’ –and its impact on human health, productivity, and well-being.
  
• The relation of biophilic and low environmental impact design to a new paradigm of sustainable development, referred to as ‘restorative environmental design’.
  
• The impact of formal and informal educational institutions on values and behaviors toward the natural environment.
  
• The biocultural basis of environmental ethics, and its role in human morality, spirituality, and religion.
  

This research has often been interdisciplinary involving elements of social-psychology, biology, architecture, philosophy, and other fields. Recent research has been funded by varying sources including private foundations and individuals (e.g., Dodge, Hewett, Goldman, Luce), government agencies (e.g., NSF, EPA, NOAA), and non-profit organizations. Specific research either ongoing or recently completed includes:

• The impact of nature in the built environment on educational institutions, office, and residential settings.
  
• Large-scale ecosystem studies of the relationship between the health and integrity of natural systems, environmental values, and socioeconomic behaviors across among urban, suburban, and rural communities.
  
• Role human values and perceptions in the conservation of biological diversity.
  
• Impact of experience of nature on childhood development.