Wednesday 3 September 2014

State of nature update


Following the launch of the State of Nature in 2013, on 3 September 2014 the Rspb are hosting the Conference for Nature in Westminster.


I’m sure there will be more news to follow, but please listen to David Attenborough’s opening gambit here



and don’t forget to vote for Bob ! 



2013 State of the nature report- Groundbreaking report shows nature is in trouble

David Attenborough:

The islands that make up the United Kingdom are home to a wonderful range of wildlife that is dear to us all. From the hill-walker marvelling at an eagle soaring overhead, to a child enthralled by a ladybird on their fingertip, we can all wonder at the variety of life around us.

However, even the most casual of observers may have noticed that all is not well.

They may have noticed the loss of butterflies from a favourite walk, the disappearance of sparrows from their garden, or the absence of the colourful wildflower meadows of their youth. To gain a true picture of the balance of our nature, we require a broad and objective assessment of the best available evidence, and that is what we have in this ground-breaking State of Nature report.

This important document provides a stark warning: far more species are declining than increasing in the UK, including many of our most treasured species. Alarmingly, a large number of them are threatened with extinction.

The causes are varied, but most are ultimately due to the way we are using our land and seas and their natural resources, often with little regard for the wildlife with which we share them.

The impact on plants and animals has been profound

Although this report highlights what we have lost, and what we are still losing, it also gives examples of how we - as individuals, organisations, governments - can work together to stop this loss, and bring back nature where it has been lost. These examples should give us hope and inspiration.

We should also take encouragement from the report itself; it is heartening to see so many organisations coming together to provide a single voice, stating loud and clear what is happening to our wildlife.

This partnership, backed by a combined membership of millions and enabled by the heroic efforts of thousands of volunteer recorders, provides a powerful force to bring the UK's nature back to its former glory.

State of the nature, England report:

http://www.rspb.org.uk/Images/england_tcm9-345846.pdf


Iolo Williams:

Watch this to feel inspired, daunted, depressed, raging, emotional and driven.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnJQjtvngqA



Laura

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