KATHMANDU: Nepal has been ranked first globally in “nature connectedness,” according to a new international study examining human bonds with the natural environment.

The research, which surveyed 57,000 people across 61 countries, found that individuals in Nepal report the strongest sense of connection to nature.

Experts say such a connection is linked to higher well-being and a greater willingness to engage in environmental protection.

The study explored how cultural, social, economic, and geographical factors influence attitudes toward the natural world, highlighting the role of local traditions and lifestyles in fostering eco-awareness.

“This deep relationship with nature not only supports individual mental health but also encourages sustainable practices,” the study noted.

Nepal’s ranking underscores the importance of integrating environmental stewardship with cultural and community values in global conservation efforts.