A description how technology has alienated us from nature. The currentsocial-technical-ecological system (STES) tends to drive us towards techniques where connection with nature is more difficult. However, techniques can also play a role in restoring human–nature connectedness in (at least) two ways: (1) directly by restoring interest in nature through e.g. new materials, experiences, emotions and/or knowledge (case study 1 and 2); and (2) indirectly by organizing people around an environmental topic (case study 3). Citizen participation may help to counter this alienation and to accelerate the transition to sustainability. Finally, a reflection on the potential for designing technology that contributes to restoring human connectedness to nature or to the reinvention of our relationship with nature.