As interest in nature-based approaches to health and wellbeing continues to grow, collaboration between academic researchers and practitioners has never been more critical. Through innovative research and strong professional networks, the Academic and Practitioner International Research in Nature (APRIN) and ARC NWC are helping to build the evidence base for non-clinical interventions, creating opportunities for research, funding, and real-world impact. Together, the organisations are fostering connections that support healthier communities and advance understanding of the vital role nature can play in improving health and wellbeing.
APRIN was founded by Professor Michelle Howarth, Professor of Health and Social Care at Edge Hill University, in October 2025 to create a collaborative space where academics, practitioners and researchers can connect and work together to improve public health through nature-based, non-clinical programmes. Established with funding from Edge Hill University’s Research Investment Fund, APRIN supports the development of a growing evidence base for nature therapy. Since its inception, the network has expanded into a thriving international community, bringing together members from more than 14 countries to collaborate on research, share best practice and explore innovative approaches to health and wellbeing.
In 2025, APRIN collaborated with the Nature & Health Alliance to co-design a series of symposia aimed at raising awareness of the many ways nature can support health and wellbeing. These events explored a diverse range of topics, from the systems and infrastructure needed to enable effective green social prescribing, through to groundbreaking research led by the Nature & Health Alliance in partnership with NASA on the use of virtual nature to support astronauts’ mental wellbeing and reduce the risk of depression during long-duration space missions.
The potential of virtual nature has also been demonstrated much closer to home. Using pre-recorded immersive nature experiences, researchers from the Nature & Health Alliance shared how they were able to bring outdoor adventures to the bedside of people approaching the end of life, helping to enhance comfort, connection, and overall wellbeing when access to nature would otherwise be impossible.
These symposia, alongside other APRIN events, have provided valuable opportunities for members to exchange knowledge, spark new ideas, build collaborations and develop future research proposals. Through these conversations, APRIN continues to strengthen connections between researchers, practitioners, and communities interested in advancing health and wellbeing through nature-based approaches.
At the group’s most recent meeting, Professor Mark Gabbay, Director of ARC NWC, attended to discuss current policy developments, share examples of good practice and promote the wide range of opportunities available through the ARC. Mark highlighted how collaboration can foster opportunity for APRIN through access to expertise, infrastructure and regional partnerships.
He also provided a strategic overview of how APRIN’s work aligns closely with current NIHR and government priorities, particularly in the areas of nature-based interventions, community wellbeing, prevention and tackling health inequalities. He highlighted the growing recognition of these approaches within both research and policy agendas, positioning APRIN as an important contributor to this emerging field. Mark also commended the strength of APRIN’s extensive network of environmentally focused organisations, noting its significant potential to generate new research collaborations and attract funding opportunities. By connecting academics, practitioners, and community partners, APRIN is helping to strengthen links across the region and beyond, creating valuable pathways for innovation, evidence generation and wider impact.
Prof Howarth had this to say about the hopes for future collaboration and the direction of APRIN;
“My hope for APRIN is that it continues to grow as a catalyst for collaboration, bringing together academic institutions, nature-based providers, communities, and policymakers to mobilise knowledge, strengthen the evidence base, and champion a systems-led approach that ensures access to nature and its wellbeing benefits for those who need it most”.
If you are interested in becoming a member of APRIN, please contact Prof. Howarth.