5:15 PM - 7:15 PM
[AOS14-P03] Comparative Examination of the Psychological Effects of Natural Environments by Biome: The Biosphere 2 Experimental Plan
Keywords:Natural Environment, Restoring capacities, Biosphere2
In contemporary society, natural environments are recognized not only as sources of resources but also as essential foundations for human physical and mental health, as well as social well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that “human health and well-being depend on the natural environment, which serves as a source of biodiversity, clean air and water, healthy soil, and food supply.” Furthermore, the decline in mental health has emerged as a critical global public health issue; current WHO projections indicate that depression may become the leading cause of disease burden worldwide by 2030. In light of these alarming trends, the psychological benefits of access to natural environments have emerged as a promising countermeasure to mental health issues. Consequently, research on the effects of various natural environments on human cognitive functions, emotions, and stress-related physiological indicators has increased significantly.
The restorative effects of natural environments have been examined through two theoretical frameworks: Attention Restoration Theory (ART) and Stress Recovery Theory (SRT). ART posits that the inherently captivating elements of nature—such as vegetation—capture involuntary attention, thereby allowing the cognitive system, which requires directed attention, to rest and ultimately enhancing cognitive performance. This effect has been empirically demonstrated through improvements in cognitive task performance. Conversely, SRT suggests that exposure to natural environments elicits a relaxation response, leading to significant stress reduction and positive mood shifts, as validated by self-reported questionnaires and changes in cardiovascular and salivary biomarkers.
However, most previous studies have focused on “green spaces” (forests and parks) and “blue spaces” (waterfront areas such as seas and lakes) as the primary natural environments under investigation, and research that comprehensively examines the Earth’s major biomes remains limited. Additionally, logistical constraints—such as travel expenses and the need for controlled experimental settings—have led many studies to rely on laboratory simulations using photographs or virtual reality (VR) rather than immersive experiences in actual natural environments.
To address these gaps, this study aims to measure changes in cognitive function, mood, and stress-related physiological indicators through direct exposure to different biomes—namely, “ocean,” “desert,” “savanna,” and “rainforest”—within Biosphere 2. By comparing the effects of these distinct environments on human well-being from a restorative perspective, we seek to clarify how the unique characteristics of each biome influence health and happiness, thereby providing valuable insights for future urban planning and health policy development.
Furthermore, the results of this study are anticipated to provide fundamental knowledge for determining the environmental conditions necessary for long-term human habitation in extraterrestrial settings. Beyond meeting the minimal requirements for life support, we propose the concept of a “core biome”—a terrestrial environmental framework essential for maintaining psychological well-being and physiological stability in space settlements.
The restorative effects of natural environments have been examined through two theoretical frameworks: Attention Restoration Theory (ART) and Stress Recovery Theory (SRT). ART posits that the inherently captivating elements of nature—such as vegetation—capture involuntary attention, thereby allowing the cognitive system, which requires directed attention, to rest and ultimately enhancing cognitive performance. This effect has been empirically demonstrated through improvements in cognitive task performance. Conversely, SRT suggests that exposure to natural environments elicits a relaxation response, leading to significant stress reduction and positive mood shifts, as validated by self-reported questionnaires and changes in cardiovascular and salivary biomarkers.
However, most previous studies have focused on “green spaces” (forests and parks) and “blue spaces” (waterfront areas such as seas and lakes) as the primary natural environments under investigation, and research that comprehensively examines the Earth’s major biomes remains limited. Additionally, logistical constraints—such as travel expenses and the need for controlled experimental settings—have led many studies to rely on laboratory simulations using photographs or virtual reality (VR) rather than immersive experiences in actual natural environments.
To address these gaps, this study aims to measure changes in cognitive function, mood, and stress-related physiological indicators through direct exposure to different biomes—namely, “ocean,” “desert,” “savanna,” and “rainforest”—within Biosphere 2. By comparing the effects of these distinct environments on human well-being from a restorative perspective, we seek to clarify how the unique characteristics of each biome influence health and happiness, thereby providing valuable insights for future urban planning and health policy development.
Furthermore, the results of this study are anticipated to provide fundamental knowledge for determining the environmental conditions necessary for long-term human habitation in extraterrestrial settings. Beyond meeting the minimal requirements for life support, we propose the concept of a “core biome”—a terrestrial environmental framework essential for maintaining psychological well-being and physiological stability in space settlements.