As the founder of GeerGarage, you can imagine how ecstatic I was to find this study from here in the Pacific Northwest, but over the Canadian border – which essentially confirms one of the major pillars behind starting this gear-sharing platform!
The small-scale UBC study found that children who play outside are more likely to protect nature as adults. Interviewing 18-25 year olds, most of whom said they loved nature (and it’s no surprise, considering they are studying somewhere as naturally picturesque as the Okanagan), it felt relevant to share with you.
You see, 87% of study respondents who played outside as children expressed a continued love of nature as young adults. Of that group, 84% said taking care of the environment was a priority.”
But what happens if we weren’t afforded this opportunity in childhood? Has the opportunity passed? At GeerGarage, we believe it’s never too late!
By removing cost barriers, our platform’s model makes the benefits of outdoor recreation accessible to anyone, regardless of age, background, social standing etc…
We believe that sharing is saving; saving money, saving the environment and ultimately, saving the planet.
I know it’s a big claim. This study was from back in 2017, but its findings from 50 people reached as far as Australia, and back again to us in Washington in 2023. The researchers agree more work needs to be done; outdoor programs are likely not enough without also "building knowledge and self-awareness of environmental stewardship" and that’s great because that’s exactly why we are building a community hub too.
Just like this study, GeerGarage is starting small in Washington state but with the support of the community like you, we know our state makes a perfect ambassador for the US, and then we show the world exactly why we play to prioritize the planet.
Stay exploring, thanks for being with us on this journey,
Adam
GeerGarage Founder
https://news.ok.ubc.ca/2017/03/17/children-who-play-outside-more-likely-to-protect-nature-as-adults/