It has become apparent over the recent years, that our beautiful and diverse planet is in danger, the threat being none other than ourselves.
The intricacies of this are infinite and the causes many. In 2019, during the 25th United Nations Climate Change conference, the main line of eco defence was identified to be reducing the global warming, dangerously increased by human activities. Resulting climate change, if we do not succeed, will be devastating for more than humanity alone; proving fatal for much of the natural world.
This is a global problem, and governments must work together to find a fast and sustainable solution to these worries. However, the habitats that are subject to change are often found on one’s very own doorstep. It is the duty of the many, as well as the few, to make a difference and turn the tide of this crisis.
One of the ways that local councils have been protecting their natural habitat here in the Kent area, is the ‘Kent Biodiversity Strategy’. Approved in February 2020, by the Kent Nature Partnership, this project is focused to help with the “maintenance, restoration and creation of habitats that are thriving with wildlife and plants and ensure that the county’s terrestrial, freshwater, intertidal and marine environments regain and retain good health.”.
Roger Gough, Leader of Kent County Council, outlined in the published “Green plan” strategy document that “Action is needed nationally and locally,” to help protect “the rich and varied [...] globally rare habitats” that can be found in Kent. In fact, over 30% of England’s speciation can be found within the South East; making the conservation of the environment here of the utmost importance, for many generations to come.
The methods that the council promises to implement “to recover nature and enhance the landscape,” will span over 25 years. Including the continuation of old schemes such as the 2019 ‘Kent County Council’s Pollinator Action Plan’, fondly dubbed ‘Plan Bee’. There will also be a greater importance on connecting the residents to the natural world around them, done via volunteering and outreach programs. The aim is to have at least 23% of the residents in Kent participating in Environmental volunteering by 2045, teaching and valuing the significance of the world outside their window.
It must be acknowledged that, during lockdown, not only has the natural world become an integral part of the day for many walkers across the UK. But moreover, the public has seen how nature can help them both physically and mentally in times of need, when everything else is uncertain, nature is always there; at least this will always be the case if a sustainable future can be realised. Projects like the ‘Kent Year in Green Action’, are actively advocating the benefits of finding solace in nature, especially after a trying year. The scheme works with many different organisations situated in Kent and offer their services to any resident of the county that expresses an interest.
It is time that the people start to give back to the planet, to thank it for the steady presence that sustains our lives, and the biodiversity present as well. Globally and locally, this should stay at the forefront of people’s minds, when time is of the essence, we must all look to play our part.
Initiatives such as the ones aforementioned, and more, are what will pave the way to a future where we have not only taken responsibility for the world as we know it but pass on the Earth to the next generation with pride. Its time to start thinking about this problem personally, it must be instead, ‘all for one and one for our planet’ to build a future where there is harmony between nature and every living force on this world.
