Welly Walks is an AUB case study report of a practice-based PhD project. This is an ongoing creative research project aimed at fostering engagement with alternative narratives about the British weather. This research addresses the challenge posed by dominant narratives surrounding the British weather, which often prevent individuals from forging deeper connections with the natural world. For instance, the consistent portrayal of rainfall in media as a negative occurrence fosters a disconnection from the vital role of water in sustaining all forms of life. Such disconnections may inadvertently promote behaviour that is detrimental to the environment. The main objective of this research is to develop a nuanced comprehension of weather as a conduit to nature and to explore how principles derived from ecolinguistics can be integrated into communication design practices to cultivate alternative narratives and conversations about British weather. This approach aims to foster reconciliation between the human and the natural world, thereby promoting environmental stewardship and enhancing overall wellbeing.

What are the service user benefits?

  • Increase environmental awareness, emotional connection, and social cohesion

  • Promoting environmental stewardship

  • Increase physical activity and enhance overall wellbeing