Firstly, this research extends restorative environment research by showing that the effects of nature extend to positive outcomes in young people; secondly, it shows restoration potentially extends to reflection on personal goals; and thirdly, it indicates that the amount of restoration can vary depending on behaviour state.

forest school

amount of change

recovery of an ecosystem with respect to its health, integrity and sustainability” (SER 2004, 1) and “the process of assisting the recovery of an ecosystem that has been degraded, damaged, or destroyed”

Maintenance of indigenous species often requires extensive “weeding” (usually conducted with herbicides) and pruning. Replanting is often necessary to meet safety requirements and avoid woody growth in urban areas.

RE frequently claims to achieve such outcomes but often results in a cosmetic application and pastiche of historic “nature” (Pierce 1994). Even if native/indigenous plants are capable of mitigating these issues there is a high likelihood that non-native plants will be more effective without necessarily excluding native fauna (Low 1999, 2003). Broadening restoration from the attempted reconstruction of historical states to focus on delivering ecosystem services, resources, productivity, and resilience is paramount to improving its urban compatibility and effectiveness. This objective would be better achieved without dogmatic bias to nativism and indigenous plants, especially in areas where these no longer occur.

improve human well-being, understanding that such well-being depends on a healthy ecosystem

Quality of life is enhanced

increases opportunities for experiencing happiness and beauty