11 Aug Urban Wildlife Champions pave the way for a Wilder Essex
Essex Wildlife Trust has launched a new initiative to support members of the public who want to take action for wildlife in their local areas.
Urban Wildlife Champions launched in March 2022 and focuses on community-led conservation. Essex Wildlife Trust manages over 100 nature reserves, but the Trust’s vision is for a whole county of connected wildlife networks and thriving wildlife.
Evidence shows that if 1 in 4 people take action for wildlife, the scales can be tipped back in favour of nature. For this to happen, Essex needs community-led, grassroots action.
Urban Wildlife Champions are voluntary members of the public that want to help wildlife in their local area. Individuals that become Urban Wildlife Champions are supported by Essex Wildlife Trust to carry out their projects and visions for a wilder county.
Urban Wildlife Champions are aiding nature’s recovery by helping to restore, reconnect and protect the green, blue and brownfield spaces in cities, towns, and villages. Projects currently underway include a greener gardening programme in Brightlingsea, a nature trail around Wickham Bishops, and working with local schools to promote sustainability in Harlow.
Danielle Carbott, Wilder Communities Manager for Essex Wildlife Trust, says:
“Urban Wildlife Champions are making a real difference in local communities. Over 100 people have signed up, with 10 of these currently underway and delivering key wildlife projects. The Trust is here to join you on your journey, supporting you with the training, tools and resources you need to succeed.”
Charmain Beckett, an Urban Wildlife Champion, adds:
“I have lots of ideas on how our community can improve areas of land for wildlife, but I felt like I needed help with making these ideas a reality, that is why I decided to sign up to become an Urban Wildlife Champion.
Danielle provides excellent support by visiting sites, giving advice, offering training and liaising with councils to help me achieve those goals. I’m currently working on increasing grassland habitat around the village playing field but have aspirations to work with landowners to link up wildlife corridors.”
Donna Goddard, an Urban Wildlife Champions, says:
“I volunteered to be an Urban Wildlife Champion because I am concerned that our beautiful countryside is being lost and fragmented due to development. I want to ensure that what we have left is nurtured and loved for the benefit of all in our community and especially for the wildlife. I strongly support the Trust’s view that community-led action is the way to go and am starting to build a small team of volunteers in Hatfield Peverel.
I decided to start with a small and manageable project to create a pilot mini meadow in the village. I am keen to expand my team and excited to hear their ideas for further projects. I am delighted that this initiative is welcomed and supported by our village parish council.”
