Does nature-based citizen science enhance well-being and mitigate negative effects of social isolation?

There is concern about the negative impacts of COVID-19 movement restrictions and social distancing on people's wellbeing and mental health. Engaging with nature is known to positively impact upon people's wellbeing and this has been promoted by many organisations. Evidence of the benefits of nature-based activities on wellbeing has come from 'noticing nature' activities where people pause and enjoy nature, sometimes with a creative response (e.g. writing or drawing). Nature-based citizen science is another way of connecting with nature and has the added value of collaboration and having a specific purpose, but its benefits have not so far been evaluated. We will undertake a large-scale randomised trial of the impact of citizen science and/or 'noticing nature' activities on people's nature connectedness and wellbeing, promoted through broadcast, print and social media. The outcome will be evidence-based recommendations on the use and design of nature-based citizen science to mitigate the negative effects of social isolation during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond.