Natural Environments, Ecosystems, Conflict, and Wellbeing

Abstract

This chapter examines the correlation between environmental issues and wellbeing. A broad literature review illustrates that changing climate, increasing populations, and degrading natural environments have negative impacts on health and wellbeing. The focus of this chapter is on conflicts arising from the limited supply of natural resources and competing needs, interests, and demands. This can create high levels of tension and division within communities that erodes community spirit, support, and connectedness as people compete for limited resources. The conflict arising from such disputes has negative impacts on social cohesion and the high levels of stress experienced, without adequate supports, can trigger mental ill health. The example of basin level water conflict in Turkey is used to illustrate this.