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Below is the information gathered from the Biodiversity group.
NOTES
- Is biodiversity an unwieldy word? Do we need a really good sound-bite that expresses the core of what we mean by Biodiversity?
- Treating all parts of nature as equal – nature as sacred, a move away from human-centric focus
- Humans have the potential to become a restorer species
- Where are the clashes between human needs and the needs of biodiversity at large?
- How do we champion the areas where human needs and the needs of biodiversity align?
- We need to make the links in the web of biodiversity explicit – e.g. horseshoe bats depend on cow poo!
- Biodiversity in gardens – how important could this be in Stroud?
- Rewilding – what role might this play in Stroud District?
- PARTNERSHIP WORKING – this will be essential!
- Local businesses and organisations – what bits of land do they have (e.g. behind offices, on industrial estates) that could be turned into wildlife corridors?
- Could businesses ‘adopt’ a local species to champion?
- Hedgehog Republic – a great example of local project working to improve habitat for Hedgehogs in the Top of Town area. Initiated by students from a local school.
- Stroud Valleys Project – works locally to increase biodiversity. NEEDS – volunteers, financial support (buy stuff in their shop and donate!)
- LAND USE in the district – do we know what habitats we have locally? How much of them? E.g. how much of the district is gardens?? (Bees are currently thriving in cities where they have ample forage throughout the year in gardens!)
- A mapping exercise would be useful, also showing ownership – AONB already done a mapping exercise and possibly the National Trust
- International habitat loss – what can we do on a global scale? Can we twin the habitats of important migratory species in Stroud district with their habitat overseas – e.g. nightingales in Gloucestershire depend on overwintering grounds in West Africa
- Engaging young people and schools – how do we support connection and love of the earth and biodiversity?
- Creative and practical means of engagement both required
- REGULAR CONTACT with the natural world is essential for love and connection to develop
- TREE PLANTING – how can we maximise biodiversity in any new tree planting schemes taking place in the District?
- Perhaps a consultation could be an integral part of every new scheme in order to maximise biodiversity in the most appropriate way – we have the expertise already in the District to do this e.g. within Stroud Valleys Project
NEXT ACHIEVABLE STEPS
- Wootton Climate Action Group – to discuss their local tree planting scheme with Stroud Valleys Project to maximise biodiversity
- Earth Protector Town – already producing a website to map what is going on in the district
- Jo (from Earth Protector Town) already beginning work with local schools to increase opportunities for getting outdoors and connecting with nature