Enjoying and conserving nature
Humans enjoy creating gardens, watching wildlife and walking in wilder areas. Such recreations improve health and deepen our understanding of the natural environment. Many also enjoy gathering, fishing and hunting for wild foods, as part of their traditional cultures, even when such resources can be cultivated.
All these activities create impacts on nature, particularly when places become heavily used. Effects of commercial fisheries and subsistence hunting are well known. Even feeding wild species, to enjoy watching them, can spread lethal disease. To these problems from the human part of the natural world can be added pollution from cultivation, medicines, plastics and other waste.
Simple choices can help reduce these impacts, conserve habitats and support healthy wildlife populations. Explore practical guidance, best practices and useful tools for enjoying and caring for natural areas.
Foragers
Foragers have a close relationship with the natural environment and can develop valuable knowledge of local plants, fungi and other natural resources. Responsible gathering can help protect habitats and ensure that wild species remain available for wildlife and future generations. Discover practical guidance and tools to help you forage safely, responsibly and sustainably.
Hunters and Anglers
Hunters and anglers often have a close connection with wildlife, landscapes and rivers, giving them an important role in supporting conservation. Responsible practices can help protect habitats, maintain healthy wildlife and fish populations, and reduce environmental impacts. Explore practical guidance and tools to support safe, responsible and sustainable hunting and angling.
Gardeners and Growers
Gardens, allotments and growing spaces can provide valuable habitats for wildlife, even in towns and cities. Simple choices such as maintaining healthy soil, reducing chemical use, conserving water and planting for pollinators can make a real difference to local biodiversity. Explore practical advice and tools to help make your growing space more sustainable and wildlife-friendly.
Watchers and Walkers
Spending time outdoors gives people an opportunity to connect with nature, observe wildlife and develop a greater appreciation for the places around them. Walkers and nature watchers can also contribute to protecting these places by recording observations and respecting habitats. Find advice and useful tools to help you enjoy nature responsibly and contribute to biodiversity monitoring.