Several studies show a positive link between the surrounding nature and greenery on the one hand and the well-being of people and society on the other. This applies at both the individual and community level, preventively and curatively.
The Province of Limburg has joined forces with the Centre for Environmental Sciences of Hasselt University for the project 'Nature-based solutions for work-related stress disorders'. Concretely, in the pilot phase of this project, a concept was developed that can alleviate the symptoms of mental fatigue and stress-related disorders among employees, such as burn-out, through nature-based activities during working hours.
The concept is currently being tested on the staff of the provincial administration, among others. At a later stage, it can be further extended for other Limburg-based employers to boost the well-being of their staff. The environmental organizations involved can also draw knowledge and inspiration from the project.
The target group of this initiative consists of male and female employees of all ages, who have volunteered to take part in the activities with the aim of reducing their stress levels. The link between activities in nature and well-being is assessed through questionnaires and objective measurements.
Source: Limburg.be
