benature.info

What It Is

BeNature is a nature-based learning initiative centered on the idea of “learning to live as nature.” Its core product is the BeNature Guide, supported by PDFs, printed books, workshops, training, and a global network. It is not positioned as a standalone online course platform, but rather as a framework for schools, community projects, conservation organizations, and policymakers to design, implement, and evaluate nature education experiences.

Core Focus Areas

In terms of curriculum scope, BeNature focuses on nature education, human-nature connection, education for sustainable development, outdoor learning, and ecological citizenship. Its approach emphasizes progressing from “learning in nature, interacting with nature, and appreciating nature” toward “acting for nature” and ultimately “acting as nature.” Its content foundation includes academic research, Indigenous wisdom, and practical experience from international professional organizations. The website states that the guide integrates research on human-nature connection from 1984 to 2015 and draws on professional experience from more than 200 international organizations.

Faculty and Institutional Background

Credibility is one of BeNature’s key strengths. The guide was co-created by the Institute for Sustainability at University of Surrey and Surrey Wildlife Trust. Its authors include Dr. Matteo Giusti, whose research focuses on regenerative sustainability, as well as Louise Shorthose and Kirsty Porter, outdoor learning and outdoor education practitioners from Surrey Wildlife Trust. For educational institutions, this combination of “researchers + frontline outdoor education practitioners” offers strong reference value.

Pricing and Certificates

The website provides entry points to “Download the PDF” and “Get the Printed Book,” and also mentions the option to join training courses and workshops. However, the captured text does not show specific fees, payment methods, training duration, or course schedules. It also does not state whether any accreditation or certificate is issued. Therefore, users who need formal proof of qualification should contact the official team for confirmation.

Pros and Cons

The advantages are its clear research basis, emphasis on measurable impact, and tools that can be used for curriculum design and project evaluation. Its use cases span schools, communities, nonprofit organizations, and policy initiatives. The drawbacks are that its course-product information is limited, with insufficient transparency around pricing, certificates, delivery format, and language support. Since the materials are mainly in English, Chinese educators may face barriers in reading, localization, and classroom adaptation.

Who It’s For and Access from China

BeNature is suitable for nature education teachers, outdoor learning practitioners, school curriculum leads, environmental NGOs, community education projects, and researchers in education for sustainable development. Chinese users who want to apply it directly in teaching should redesign the materials according to local ecosystems, student age groups, and curriculum standards. The captured content is not sufficient to determine access stability from mainland China, so it is currently marked as unknown.