Nature & Biodiversity
Research shows that the closer to nature we are the happier we are, the more worthwhile life seems and the more we understand our relationship with the natural world [1]. Biodiversity, a term to describe the variety of all life on earth, is vital to our survival: providing us with air, water, storing carbon and preventing flooding. However, there has been an overall 60% decline in species across the globe since 1970 [2].
The Environment (Wales) Act 2016 requires councils to maintain and enhance the resilience of ecosystems, while the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 says Wales should be, “A nation which maintains and enhances a biodiverse natural environment with healthy functioning ecosystems that support social, economic and ecological resilience and the capacity to adapt to change.”
What different types of habitat are there in your area? What lives in your place, human and non-human? Who might have information about the wildlife in your area? Can you find groups or organisations who have knowledge of the wildlife of your area?
Are there any Wildlife Trust projects or specific wildlife initiatives in your area?
Are there any areas of Special Scientific Interest or nature reserves locally?
Does your area have any particular protected species in your area? Flowers, mushrooms, birds, for example?
Questions to consider
-
• Are there sites of special scientific interest in your area?
• What wildlife has been spotted in your area?
• What is the landscape character of your part of Wales?
• Is your place at risk of flooding?
• Find out more about the value of the natural world to our everyday lives in ‘The Nature Connection Handbook’.