Futurescapes – The Future of Wildlife Conservation?
Dubbed ‘Futurescapes,’ the programme will see the RSPB working in partnership with others to create whole landscapes where people and nature can co-exist.
Aidan Lonergan, The RSPB’s Futurescapes Manager, said: “Nature reserves are vitally important – they are a refuge from where plants and animals can spread into the wider countryside. But that countryside is increasingly unfriendly to wildlife because of decades of habitat loss, which has robbed many species of food and shelter. Now climate change threatens to add even further pressure.”
“We need to turn that around. Working with others, we can once again make large areas of the countryside rich in wildlife. We need to move beyond the nature reserve and create really big areas of land, whole landscapes, where wildlife has space to move and thrive.”
To showcase its new approach, the RSPB has chosen the Greater Thames; more than 1000 square kilometres straddling the river from Tower Bridge, along the estuary and out into the North Sea. In this area, the RSPB:
Owns or manages 40 sq km of land for wildlife on the Thames.
Has spent more than £50 million regenerating land and opening up large areas for people to enjoy.
Worked with DP World to make sure the new London Gateway Port results in new habitat and a net gain for wildlife.
Forged a partnership with the Port of London Authority to produce a Conservation Management Framework that will guide the PLA in their day-to-day operations.
Joined with waste management firm Veolia ES Limited to regenerate large areas of landfill and grassland, transforming them into wetlands and public space.
Reached agreement with local councils to take on and manage large areas of land for wildlife and people.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
