Wild About Gardens, for the benefit of people and wildlife

Yes in my back yard!

- Natural England launches wildlife gardening manifesto

The UK's leading wildlife and horticultural organisations are today (Wednesday 18 July) joining Natural England in signing a wildlife gardening manifesto to save the nation's gardens, particularly those in towns and cities.

Sir Martin Doughty, Chair of Natural England said: "The gardens of England are under threat. In London, front gardens with an area 22 times the size of Hyde Park are now paved over and lost, reducing havens for wildlife, increasing the impact of flash flooding and contributing to climate change.

"Through this manifesto, Natural England is calling to action businesses, the public sector and the public to play their part and give gardens a future ? for the benefit of our own health and the survival of declining species, such as hedgehogs, frogs and bumblebees, that live on our doorsteps."

This action follows a recent ICM Poll, commissioned by Natural England. The Poll found that 45% of 18-34 year olds do not feel they are well informed about wildlife gardening and 37% of 18-24 year olds said they would like to do more but don't know how.

Gardens act as a food supermarket for many visiting and breeding animals. They are the place where most children make their first contact with the natural world and are often one of the only places where adults encounter wildlife apart from on a television screen.

Joan Ruddock, Minister for Biodiversity said: "This manifesto will help improve gardening advice to encourage people to manage gardens in a way that benefits wildlife. This is essential because as our climate changes, the network of gardens could help wildlife to adapt and migrate throughout the country.

"It is inspiring to see leading wildlife and horticultural organisations working together to highlight the importance of gardens for both wildlife and for people's health and well-being."

The event, held at 'Roots and Shoots' in Lambeth, London marks a commitment by organisations to take action in supporting the role gardens play in providing habitats for wildlife and providing easy access to nature.

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