The National Conversation
To kick off the People's Plan for Nature, we asked you to have your say on why our nature is so special and what we can do to protect it. In just four weeks there were 30,000 responses from people sharing their thoughts and ideas online and at events at Future Art Centres all over the UK. These ideas fed into the themes and subjects discussed at The People’s Assembly for Nature.
What you said about UK nature and how we can save it
From planting trees, to saving endangered animals to looking after people’s mental health, thousands of you shared your thoughts and opinions on what you love about nature and how we can all save it. Here’s a snapshot of some of the conversations which have helped shape the People’s Plan for Nature.
In-person events
Thousands of you took part in the National Conversation by having your say at 74 locations across the UK, including Future Arts Centres, National Trust properties, schools and football clubs. Each centre taking part had a tree which people filled with ideas and opinions on how we can protect nature and wildlife in the UK.
Watch the video to find out more.
What you love about nature and what you think would be different in a future where nature thrives
“I love the peace it gives me when I go for a walk, to watch the seasons changing, the joy in seeing birds and other wildlife. Being ecstatic at seeing an otter, sea eagle & osprey and the joy on my children’s faces when they do too.”
“I love the freedom nature gives when you can stop at any moment and just watch life in all its glory, from the smallest moss and bug going about their day to the sound of leaves in the trees, water running, or birds calling; it is bliss and perfection. To lose such simplicity would be a soul crushing blow and leave me much the poorer.”
“Even in the city the urban foxes, garden birds, canalside herons and green parks break up the hard ground on which we walk. All joy”.
“I love all of nature but in particular the sea is important to me. Our seas provide me with a sense of calm and helps to reset my emotions. The pollution from chemicals, plastic and sewage is so worrying. This affects all of the oceans Flora and fauna and our ability to swim and enjoy the water.”
“People aren't exploiting nature for profit. The way we live is alongside nature, not trying to dominate it - like making sure our roads don't stop animals crossing, or our industry doesn't pollute their habitats.”
“The volume of green spaces would explode. The balance of human lives would be different. We would appreciate and prioritise the natural world. There would be a slower, more connected pace of life - with people having more time for family and friends and their local community.”
“More community engagement in creating solutions and taking action.”
“Whenever decisions are being made, nature is considered as a voice in the room - How can this impact nature positively? How can the use of nature benefit this decision? The buzz of nature is almost deafening as opposed to silent which it sometimes currently is.”
Why is it that the environment has become subject to political cycles?