Perception of natural ecosystems and urban greenery: are we afraid of nature?

Abstract

A set of pictures of natural vegetation in protected areas and urbanized ecosystems were shown to respondents. Protected areas were ranked as natural. Perceived naturalness of ecosystems was positively correlated with the sense of beauty and preference for recreational use, but negatively with the feeling of security. When the respondents rated ecosystems as natural, they also regarded them as more dangerous. A cumulative link mixed model supported the statement that perceived ecosystem naturalness decreased the feeling of safety; this relationship was comparatively weaker among people living in small villages and gardeners.