Factors affecting relational values of nature: a case of the Nagara River, Japan

Abstract Relational values contribute to the pluralistic valuation of nature by providing a unique perspective beyond the dichotomy of intrinsic and instrumental values. This study examines how the Nagara River Basin in central Japan is relationally valued by locals and the factors influencing their evaluation. The Nagara River Basin is home to approximately 830,000 people and deeply connected to the local economy and culture. We subjected data from an online survey of 2031 respondents living in the river basin to exploratory factor analysis and structural equation modeling to explore the factors that impact the level of relational values. We found that the residents of the basin valued the river in two relational ways: their own self-identity and well-being (RV-self), and the community or the social relationships that are built around the river (RV-others). Structural equation modeling revealed that RV-self was significantly correlated with the number of activities that the respondents engaged in around the river, and special knowledge of the traditional interactions between people and the Nagara River. Furthermore, RV-others was significantly correlated with the number of activities engaged in by the respondents around the river, childhood experiences in nature, social interactions around the river, and general knowledge regarding the Nagara River. These findings provide insight into how relational values can be developed, suggesting a direction for future research on how these factors can be used to develop pro-environmental behavior and promote the well-being of local communities.