World Oceans Day: Why Our Blue Planet Needs Us More Than Ever

Mark World Oceans Day by discovering why healthy oceans are vital for wildlife, climate stability and our future, and learn simple ways to help protect them.

Every year on 8 June, people around the globe come together to celebrate World Oceans Day, a reminder of just how important our oceans are to life on Earth.

Covering more than 70% of our planet's surface, the world's oceans are far more than vast stretches of water. 

They help regulate our climate, provide food for billions of people, generate much of the oxygen we breathe and support an incredible diversity of wildlife, from tiny plankton to majestic whales.

Yet despite their importance, our oceans face growing challenges.

Plastic pollution remains one of the most visible threats. Millions of tonnes of plastic enter the sea every year, harming marine life and breaking down into microplastics that can eventually make their way into the food chain. Sea turtles, seabirds and marine mammals are particularly vulnerable, often mistaking plastic waste for food.

Climate change is also taking its toll. Rising ocean temperatures are contributing to coral bleaching, disrupting marine ecosystems and altering migration patterns for many species. At the same time, increasing levels of carbon dioxide are making oceans more acidic, creating additional challenges for shellfish and coral reefs.

Overfishing and habitat destruction continue to put pressure on marine environments, threatening both wildlife and the communities that depend on healthy oceans for their livelihoods.

The good news is that individuals can make a difference.

Simple actions such as reducing single-use plastics, recycling responsibly, choosing sustainably sourced seafood and taking part in local beach or river clean-ups can all help protect marine ecosystems. Even small changes, when adopted by millions of people, can have a significant impact.

World Oceans Day is also an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and wonder of our seas. Whether it's a walk along the coast, learning about marine conservation projects or supporting organisations working to protect ocean habitats, there are countless ways to connect with the natural world.

The theme of World Oceans Day is ultimately one of hope. Around the world, scientists, conservationists, governments and local communities are working together to restore habitats, protect endangered species and develop more sustainable ways of living alongside our oceans.

As we mark World Oceans Day, it's worth remembering that every drop of water on our planet is connected. Protecting the oceans isn't just about safeguarding distant coastlines and marine wildlife, it's about protecting the health of the entire Earth.

Our oceans have given us so much. Today is the perfect day to think about how we can give something back.

The Hidden Financial Risk of Biodiversity Loss: Why Nature Matters to the World Economy

The Hidden Cost of Nature Loss Could Push Nations Towards Financial Crisis.

New research warns that biodiversity loss could increase national debt costs, weaken economies and push some countries closer to financial crisis. 

Here's why protecting nature makes economic sense.

When we talk about biodiversity loss, most of us think about disappearing wildlife, shrinking forests, or declining bee populations. But new research suggests the consequences could reach much further than the natural world, all the way into government finances, national economies, and even taxpayers’ pockets.

A major new study published in the scientific journal Nature warns that financial markets are currently failing to account for the economic risks posed by environmental degradation. The result? Trillions of dollars of assets could be significantly mispriced, leaving countries exposed to serious financial shocks.

Researchers from the University of Sussex, University of Sheffield, Edinburgh Business School and SOAS examined what would happen if key ecosystem services suffered even a partial collapse. These services include wild pollinators that help grow crops, marine fisheries that support global food supplies, and tropical forests that provide valuable natural resources.

Their findings are striking.

The team estimates that biodiversity loss in these areas alone could reduce global GDP by around US$2 trillion every year. That economic damage would then ripple through financial markets, affecting countries’ credit ratings and making it more expensive for governments to borrow money.

Some of the world’s largest economies could be hit particularly hard. The study suggests India’s sovereign credit rating could fall by four grades, while China could drop by more than five grades. Together, the two countries could face an additional US$119 billion in annual debt interest payments.

Across the 23 countries included in the research, annual borrowing costs could rise by more than US$162 billion. That is close to three-quarters of the world’s total overseas development aid budget.

Researchers argue that current credit rating systems fail to recognise nature loss as a major economic risk. Professor Matthew Agarwala of the University of Sussex warned that governments may ultimately face difficult choices, including raising taxes, cutting public spending, or allowing inflation to rise if environmental decline continues to undermine economic performance.

The study draws parallels with the 2008 financial crisis, suggesting that markets may once again be overlooking a growing threat until it becomes impossible to ignore.

Perhaps the most important message is also the simplest: protecting nature is far cheaper than dealing with the consequences of losing it.

As governments around the world debate how to fund conservation and biodiversity recovery, this research offers a powerful reminder that healthy ecosystems are not simply environmental assets, they are economic ones too.

You can read the report here https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-026-03081-7

How Your Garden Lighting Could Be Harming Wildlife. And What You Can Do About It

Is Your Garden Lighting Harming Wildlife? Why Dark Nights Matter More Than You Think.

Leaving garden lights on overnight can disrupt bats, hedgehogs, moths and other wildlife. Discover how to create a wildlife-friendly garden after dark.

Many of us love a well-lit garden. Solar path lights, decorative lanterns, security floodlights and illuminated patios can make outdoor spaces feel welcoming and safe after dark.

But while garden lighting may look attractive to us, it can create significant problems for some of the wildlife that visits our gardens every night.

As awareness grows about biodiversity loss and declining wildlife populations, experts are increasingly encouraging homeowners to think carefully about how much artificial light they use outdoors.

Why Darkness Matters

For millions of years, wildlife evolved around natural cycles of daylight and darkness. Many animals rely on darkness to hunt, forage, navigate, breed and avoid predators.

When gardens remain brightly lit throughout the night, these natural behaviours can be disrupted.

Artificial light can affect:

Bats searching for insects

Hedgehogs moving between feeding areas

Moths and other pollinating insects

Owls and other nocturnal birds

Amphibians such as frogs and newts

Even relatively small amounts of light can alter how these animals use a habitat.

The Impact on Insects

One of the most visible effects of garden lighting is on insects.

Moths, beetles and other flying insects are naturally attracted to artificial light sources. Instead of feeding, pollinating plants or finding mates, they can spend hours circling lights until they become exhausted or fall victim to predators.

This not only affects the insects themselves but also the many animals that depend on them for food.

With insect populations already under pressure across the UK, reducing unnecessary lighting can provide valuable support.

Bats and Hedgehogs Need Darkness Too

Many bat species avoid brightly lit areas altogether. A floodlit garden may effectively create a barrier that prevents bats from accessing feeding routes.

Hedgehogs can also become reluctant to cross illuminated spaces, making it harder for them to travel between gardens in search of food and shelter.

As gardens become increasingly important wildlife corridors, maintaining dark areas can help these animals move more freely.

Simple Ways to Make Your Garden Wildlife-Friendly

The good news is that you do not need to sit in complete darkness to help wildlife.

Consider:

Using motion sensors instead of lights that stay on all night

Switching lights off when they are not needed

Choosing warmer-coloured bulbs rather than bright white LEDs

Directing light downwards instead of allowing it to spread widely

Creating "dark zones" where wildlife can move undisturbed

Using timers to limit lighting during late-night hours

Even small changes can make a significant difference.

A Better Balance

Garden lighting certainly has its place, particularly for safety and security. However, by using it thoughtfully, we can enjoy our outdoor spaces while also supporting the wildlife that shares them.

Sometimes one of the most environmentally friendly things we can do is surprisingly simple: switch off the lights and let nature enjoy the night.

And you'll be doing your bit for your nocturnal visitors. 

Rewilding in Action: New Somerset Report Shows Nature Fighting Back

(c) Pete Matthews Heal Beaver

As the UK continues to grapple with a biodiversity crisis, a new report from national charity Heal Rewilding offers something that is often in short supply when talking about nature recovery: evidence that positive change is possible.

The charity has published its first-ever Heal Somerset State of Nature 2026 report, documenting the remarkable ecological progress being made at its rewilding site in Somerset since acquiring the land in December 2022.

Designed to mirror the format of the UK's wider State of Nature reports, the publication focuses entirely on nature-led recovery and highlights how rewilding can play a significant role in restoring biodiversity, improving climate resilience and rebuilding healthier ecosystems.

The findings are encouraging.

Thirty-five surveys have been carried out so far, including five formal baseline studies. Researchers recorded 60 breeding bird species, 15 bat species, 404 invertebrate species and 113 vascular plant species. A comparative survey of small mammals found five species and 49 individual animals at Heal Somerset, compared with just three species and 17 individuals on a nearby organic dairy farm.

Informal observations have also revealed an impressive diversity of wildlife. Since 2023, visitors and surveyors have recorded 94 bird species, including 21 red-listed and 28 amber-listed species, alongside 24 species of butterfly.

The report arrives at a time when rewilding is gaining momentum across Britain. According to Rewilding Britain, more than 1,000 rewilding projects covering over 206,000 hectares are now part of its national network.

Heal Rewilding co-founder Jan Stannard believes that while inspiring wildlife stories are valuable, hard evidence is essential if rewilding is to become a recognised part of national nature recovery strategies.

The charity says its monitoring programme is about more than simply counting species. Long-term data collection aims to understand how ecosystems recover when nature is allowed greater freedom to shape the landscape itself.

Beyond supporting wildlife, rewilding can deliver wider environmental benefits. Healthy ecosystems help store carbon, improve soil quality, manage water more effectively and increase resilience to extreme weather events such as flooding, drought and heatwaves.

Perhaps most importantly, the report offers a rare sense of optimism. While the UK's biodiversity challenges remain significant, Heal Somerset demonstrates that when land is given space to recover, nature can respond surprisingly quickly.

The charity plans to publish updated reports every four to five years, creating a long-term record of ecological recovery and helping ensure rewilding has a stronger voice in future national assessments of Britain's natural environment.

https://www.healrewilding.org.uk/

Friends continue to make a difference on the A82 in Scotland

Volunteers from JP Morgan & AECOM turned out on a rainy Wednesday 3rd of June morning to try to reduce the litter which continues to gather along the shores of Loch Lomond.

The event was organised by The Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs (FOLLATT), a long established conservation charity which operates in and around Scotland’s busiest National Park, and was assisted by the Grab Trust who provided the litter picking equipment.

Their Chairman, John Urquhart, told That's Green: “This, our second Make a Difference (MAD) event of 2026, concentrated once again on tackling the ongoing problem of littering which blights the loch side along the busy A82 between Arden and Ardlui. 

"We were especially keen to see how the removal of our lay-by bins was impacting the situation and were initially heartened to note that the lay-bys and intervening verges were generally quite presentable. 

"However, as we feared, the cleanliness was only superficial, as it quickly became clear that a substantial number of people were once again disposing of litter by throwing it into the undergrowth.

"Enquiries revealed a workforce from Argyll and Bute had indeed carried out a litter clearance operation of the road a few weeks ago, as they normally do at the start of the tourist season, but it was obvious to us this had not been an in-depth operation.

"Sadly, this just reaffirms our view that the two responsible authorities, Argyll and Bute and The National Park are continuing to neglect their duty to tackle this important issue effectively.

Meanwhile it looks like our hard-working volunteers are going to have to keep turning out to do their best to keep the bonnie banks looking their best.”

Mr Urquhart added that he wished to thank the Lodge on Loch Lomond Hotel for hosting the event and supplying FOLLAT’s somewhat damp volunteers with a delicious snack at the end of the event.

https://www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk

Incidentally, That's Green has launched a nationwide initiative some under the title "Don't Be a Sinner, Be a Binner!"

It calls for everyone to do their part in helping to ensure that bins are used for rubbish and that our environment is kept clean. Discarded rubbish and trash can kill pets and wildlife so it's not merely a matter of discarded items looking a mess.  

If you follow this link to the blogpost you will find useful resources and advice on how to help to be a binner and not a sinner.

https://thatsgreen.blogspot.com/2026/03/dont-be-sinner-be-binner.html

Devon Conservation Charity Defies Odds with Rare Lemur Quadruplets

Shaldon Wildlife Trust is celebrating an extraordinary "baby boom" following the birth of four critically endangered red-ruffed lemurs. 

The quadruplets, born on May 4th to mother Eka and father Nero, represent a significant milestone for the small Devon-based charity and for the European breeding programme.

While twins are common for this species, quadruplets are an incredible rarity, occurring in fewer than 6% of births worldwide.

Despite being one of the UK's smaller wildlife charities, Shaldon is known for punching well above its weight on the international stage. 

These newborns are part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA) breeding programme, a vital Europe-wide effort to ensure the survival of red-ruffed lemurs, which are only found in a small area in the Northeast of Madagascar. 

Alongside being part of the breeding programme, Shaldon Wildlife Trust directly supports the protection of these animals in the wild through their field conservation partner, the Lemur Conservation Association (AEECL).

The news comes on the heels of the Trust being featured in National Geographic as one of the top zoos globally dedicated to conservation, further cementing the small zoo’s role in global wildlife preservation.

The four youngsters are already keeping mom, Eka, very busy. Visitors to the Trust may soon be able to catch a glimpse of the youngsters as they become more active in their habitat.

"To have four healthy infants at once is a real testament to the care our team provides," sZak Showell, Director, told That's Green.

"We’ve had a lot of excitement recently with the National Geographic coverage, but there is nothing quite like the arrival of 'quads' to remind us why we do what we do. It’s a huge win for the species and a proud moment for Shaldon."

https://www.shaldonwildlifetrust.org.uk

Britain’s Hidden Jungle? Scotland’s Tiny Rainforest is Full of Dennis the Menace Lichens and Ancient Magic

When people think of rainforests, they usually picture the Amazon, tropical heat, parrots screeching overhead and maybe the odd snake lurking in a tree.

But Britain has its own rainforest.

And honestly? It is wonderfully weird.

Tucked away beside beautiful Loch Katrine in the heart of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, visitors can now explore one of the easternmost surviving fragments of Scotland’s incredibly rare temperate rainforest thanks to a brand new nature trail celebrating this ancient landscape.

Yes, rainforest. In Scotland.

The newly opened Scotland’s Rainforest Nature Trail has been created by the Steamship Sir Walter Scott Trust and winds its way through mossy woodland near Trossachs Pier, an area often described as the birthplace of Scottish tourism.

And this is not just any woodland stroll.

These forests are part of Scotland’s Celtic Rainforest, a habitat that now covers less than one percent of the country. Think twisted ancient trees, emerald-green mosses, rare lichens, damp air and the sort of scenery that looks like it belongs in a fantasy film.

The rainforest has been quietly evolving since the end of the Ice Age, creating the perfect conditions for all sorts of unusual wildlife to thrive, including butterflies, moths, liverworts and lichens so strange-looking they have nicknames.

Which brings us to perhaps the greatest rainforest resident of all.

A shaggy lichen affectionately nicknamed “Dennis the Menace” because it looks like the famously wild-haired Dennis the Menace from DC Thomson.

Naturally, the trail now includes the comic troublemaker himself on one of its information panels after special permission was granted to mark Dennis’s 75th anniversary year.

Only in Britain could a rainforest conservation story somehow involve Beano comics.

The trail has been carefully designed to help protect the fragile habitat too, with enclosed pathways and boardwalks guiding visitors through sensitive areas while reducing erosion and disturbance.

It also links directly to the Scenic Tower & Lookouts above the loch, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views across the water and surrounding hills, the same landscapes that inspired Sir Walter Scott when writing The Lady of the Lake.

With more than 250,000 people visiting Loch Katrine every year, the new trail is helping shine a spotlight on one of Britain’s most magical and overlooked ecosystems.

So next time somebody says Britain does not have rainforests, you can tell them we absolutely do.

Ours just happen to come with lichens named after comic book characters.

https://www.lochkatrine.com

Tourism That Gives Back: National Forest Celebrates Businesses Helping Nature Thrive

National Forest Tourism Champions

There is something wonderfully hopeful about the story of the National Forest. 

Once shaped heavily by industry and mining, the landscape has been transformed over the past three decades into one of Britain’s great environmental success stories, and now tourism businesses are helping drive the next chapter.

This week, organisations helping build a more regenerative future for tourism were recognised as the National Forest unveiled its new Transformative Tourism Framework at Hoar Cross Hall.

The initiative is all about making tourism a force for good, not just for visitors, but for nature, local communities and the wider rural economy too.

Presented by Lady Victoria Borwick, the inaugural Champions received sustainable wooden plaques crafted from National Forest timber in recognition of the work they are already doing to create greener, healthier and more welcoming visitor experiences.

Rather than focusing on rigid accreditation schemes or perfection, the framework encourages practical progress and collaboration. It is built around five key pathways: supporting a greener economy, encouraging low-carbon travel, improving accessibility, boosting wellbeing and restoring nature.

Among those recognised for low-carbon travel was National Forest E-Bike and Walking Holidays, which encourages visitors to explore the Forest sustainably through guided cycling and walking adventures. Meanwhile, National Memorial Arboretum was praised for improving public transport access through its dedicated bus connection to Tamworth railway station.

Businesses championing sustainability in hospitality and enterprise included Tollgate Brewery, woodland skills specialists Greenwood Days and Hoar Cross Hall, which has invested in biomass energy systems.

Elsewhere, organisations such as Calke Abbey, Bradgate Park and Hicks Lodge were recognised for making outdoor spaces more accessible and inclusive.

Nature and wellbeing sit at the heart of the Forest’s growing appeal. Projects including Whistlewood Common and Wild Minds are using outdoor learning, volunteering and nature connection to support mental health and community wellbeing.

Perhaps most inspiring of all is the sheer scale of the transformation.

Since the early 1990s, forest cover across the area has increased from just six per cent to more than 26 per cent. Earlier this year, the Forest celebrated the planting of its 10 millionth tree,  a remarkable milestone that highlights what long-term environmental ambition can achieve.

Today, over 8.5 million visitors explore the National Forest every year, contributing almost £620 million to the local economy while enjoying woodland walks, cycling trails, forest bathing, wildlife experiences and nature-based stas.

At a time when many destinations are asking how tourism can become more sustainable, the National Forest is showing that tourism can do far more than simply minimise harm — it can actively help restore landscapes, support biodiversity and strengthen communities.

And that feels like a future worth exploring.

To learn more and see a full list of the champions visit https://www.nationalforest.org

World Turtle Day: Why These Ancient Ocean Travellers Need Our Help More Than Ever

Every year on 23 May, the world celebrates World Turtle Day, a chance to shine a spotlight on one of nature’s most fascinating and resilient creatures.

Turtles have been around for more than 200 million years. 

They survived the extinction of the dinosaurs, adapted to changing oceans and climates, and became vital parts of marine and freshwater ecosystems across the globe.

Yet despite their incredible history, many turtle species are now fighting for survival because of modern environmental pressures.

For a blog like That’s Green, World Turtle Day is a reminder that conservation is not just about protecting distant wildlife. It is about protecting the balance of the natural world that ultimately supports all of us.

Sea turtles play a surprisingly important role in ocean health. Green turtles help maintain healthy seagrass beds by grazing on them, keeping the underwater ecosystems productive and balanced. Other turtle species help control jellyfish populations and contribute to healthy coral reef environments.

But turtles face mounting threats almost everywhere they live.

Plastic pollution remains one of the biggest dangers. A floating plastic bag can easily be mistaken for a jellyfish, leading turtles to ingest waste that can seriously injure or kill them. Lost fishing gear, known as “ghost gear”, can trap turtles in the water, while coastal development destroys nesting beaches that female turtles return to year after year.

Climate change is adding even more pressure. Rising sand temperatures can actually affect the sex of hatchlings, with warmer beaches producing far more females than males. Stronger storms and rising sea levels are also damaging fragile nesting habitats around the world.

The good news is that conservation efforts are making a difference.

Protected marine areas, beach clean-up campaigns, wildlife rescue centres, and international conservation programmes are all helping turtle populations recover in some regions. Around the world, volunteers work tirelessly to monitor nests, protect hatchlings, and reduce pollution entering the oceans.

And ordinary people can help too.

Simple actions such as cutting down on single-use plastics, supporting sustainable seafood, joining local litter picks, and spreading awareness all contribute to protecting marine life. Even small choices can have a ripple effect when enough people get involved.

World Turtle Day is ultimately about respect, for wildlife, for oceans, and for the fragile ecosystems that connect us all.

After millions of years on Earth, turtles deserve a future that is safer, cleaner, and far more sustainable than the one humans are currently giving them.

https://www.worldturtleday.org

Clean Energy Meets Rewilding as PLAN-B NET ZERO Joins Forces with Planet Wild

Big climate challenges need big ideas, and sometimes the best solutions come when two worlds collide. 

That is exactly what is happening with a new partnership between Swiss GreenTech company PLAN-B NET ZERO and Berlin-based rewilding organisation Planet Wild.

The two organisations have announced a strategic partnership that blends clean energy with large-scale nature restoration, proving that fighting climate change is not just about switching to renewable power, but also about helping the natural world recover.

And honestly? It makes perfect sense.

Solar panels, wind farms and greener energy systems are vital, but forests, wetlands, oceans and wildlife all play a huge role in keeping the planet balanced too. Healthy ecosystems absorb carbon, support biodiversity and help protect communities from environmental damage.

This new partnership aims to tackle both sides of the equation.

Planet Wild has quickly become one of Europe’s most talked-about conservation movements. Founded in 2022 by Markus Gilles, Jonas Brandau and Andreas Pursian, the organisation has built a huge online following through its ambitious rewilding missions, all documented publicly on YouTube.

What started with just 12 supporters has exploded into a global movement. By 2025, Planet Wild had completed more than 30 missions across 25 countries, with some projects attracting over €250,000 in community funding.

That growth shows something important, people want hopeful environmental stories. They want to see action, not just headlines.

Now, with PLAN-B NET ZERO becoming Planet Wild’s first official B2B Rewilding Partner, even more projects are on the horizon.

Upcoming missions are set to take place in Kenya, Argentina and Australia, focusing on restoring damaged ecosystems, protecting endangered species and working directly with local communities.

Julia Schnitger, Head of Marketing at PLAN-B NET ZERO, summed it up perfectly, saying that clean energy alone is not enough without healthy ecosystems to support a stable planet in the long term.

And that is the key takeaway here.

The future is not just about lowering emissions. It is about rebuilding the natural systems that make life possible in the first place.

Partnerships like this show that climate action and rewilding do not have to compete for attention. In reality, they work best together, and the planet desperately needs both.

https://www.planetwild.com

Rewilding Britain Passes £1 Million Milestone as Nature Recovery Projects Gather Pace

Britain’s rewilding movement has just hit a major milestone, and it’s brilliant news for wildlife, coastal communities and the fight against climate change.

Rewilding Britain has now awarded more than £1 million in grants through its Rewilding Innovation Fund, helping ambitious projects across the country bring landscapes, coastlines and marine habitats back to life.

And the latest round of funding shows one thing loud and clear: working with nature is rapidly becoming one of Britain’s best defences against climate change.

From the shores of North Wales to the windswept islands of Orkney, communities are embracing rewilding not as a luxury, but as a practical solution to rising sea levels, habitat destruction and biodiversity loss.

Wales Looks Beneath the Waves

One of the standout projects is the Menai-Connecting Coasts initiative in North Wales, led by the Zoological Society of London and Bangor University.

The project aims to restore marine habitats across the Menai Strait and Conwy Bay, with a particular focus on reviving native oyster reefs.

That may sound niche, but oysters are environmental superheroes. Healthy oyster reefs can improve water quality, boost biodiversity and create thriving underwater habitats for marine life. They can even support local fishing and tourism economies.

The project will now explore where oyster recovery could successfully take place across North Wales, laying the foundations for large-scale marine restoration.

Orkney Fights Back Against Coastal Erosion

Meanwhile, in the Orkney Isles, the Growing Sanday Land & Sea project is tackling one of the biggest threats facing island communities: coastal erosion.

Parts of Sanday sit only a few metres above sea level, and some dunes have already retreated by an astonishing 37 metres.

Instead of relying purely on expensive man-made defences, the community is turning to nature itself.

The project plans to restore kelp forests, dunes and saltmarshes to create natural coastal protection systems capable of helping shield the island from storms and erosion.

It’s a powerful example of how rewilding is no longer just about “letting nature grow wild” — it’s increasingly about helping communities survive and thrive in a changing climate.

More Than Just Wildlife

Other projects receiving funding include river restoration work along Dorset’s River Char to reduce flooding and boost biodiversity, alongside habitat recovery efforts in the Cairngorms National Park, where degraded peatlands, woodlands and freshwater systems are being revived.

And that’s the key point here: rewilding benefits people as well as nature.

Healthier ecosystems can reduce flooding, store carbon, support wildlife, improve water quality and create greener local economies. In many cases, restoring nature is proving cheaper, and far more sustainable, than constantly battling environmental damage after it happens.

Rebecca Wrigley, CEO of Rewilding Britain, said the growing demand for funding reflects the rapid rise of rewilding projects across the country, with communities increasingly choosing long-term nature-based solutions over short-term fixes.

A Wilder Future?

Rewilding Britain wants to see at least 30% of Britain’s land and seas rewilded by 2030, an ambitious target, but one that feels increasingly achievable as projects like these gain momentum.

And perhaps most encouraging of all is the fact that many of these schemes are community-led. From Welsh coastlines to Scottish islands, ordinary people are helping shape a greener, wilder and more resilient future.

Nature, it seems, may finally be getting a fighting chance.

http://www.rewildingbritain.org.uk

World Bee Day: What Happens if the Buzz Disappears?

There are some sounds that instantly say “British springtime.” 

Birds singing at dawn. Lawnmowers firing into life for the first time in months. 

Someone three gardens away attempting a barbecue in weather that is definitely not, yet, warm enough.

And then there is the gentle buzz of bees.

On World Bee Day, people around the globe are being encouraged to think more seriously about one uncomfortable question:

What happens if that buzzing stops?

Bees Are Nature’s Workforce

Bees are not simply “nice to have” insects floating around gardens looking decorative. They are one of the foundations of healthy ecosystems.

Pollination carried out by bees helps wild plants reproduce, supports biodiversity and provides food and shelter for countless other species.

Without bees, entire natural systems begin to weaken.

The scary part is that this would not happen dramatically overnight like a disaster movie. It would happen gradually. Fewer flowers. Fewer berries. Reduced crop yields. Less wildlife. Less resilience in the environment.

Nature would become quieter, duller and less productive.

Britain Has Lost Huge Amounts of Wildflower Habitat

One of the biggest problems facing pollinators in the UK is habitat loss.

Over the decades, huge areas of wildflower meadows have disappeared due to construction, intensive agriculture and changing land use. Tidy gardens, artificial lawns and paved outdoor spaces may look neat, but they often provide little for bees to feed on.

Even road verges, once packed with wildflowers, are frequently cut back before plants have a chance to bloom.

The result? Bees are often forced to travel further for food while having fewer safe nesting spaces.

Climate Change Is Creating Confusion

Bees are also struggling with increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

Warmer winters can encourage bees to emerge earlier than usual, only for sudden cold snaps to wipe out flowering plants. Heavy rain and storms can also reduce the time bees are able to forage.

Nature relies heavily on timing, and climate change is throwing that timing badly out of balance.

The Good News: Small Changes Really Matter

One of the encouraging things about bee conservation is that ordinary people genuinely can help.

You do not need to own a nature reserve or become a full-time beekeeper.

Simple actions can have a surprisingly large impact:

Plant pollinator-friendly flowers

Avoid pesticides where possible

Leave some areas of grass to grow naturally

Support local conservation projects

Put water out during hot weather

Buy from environmentally responsible growers and farmers

Even window boxes and small urban gardens can become important feeding stations for pollinators.

Relearning How to Share Space with Nature

Perhaps one of the biggest lessons of World Bee Day is that modern life has become a little too obsessed with controlling nature.

We trim everything. Pave everything. Spray everything. Remove weeds. Remove insects. Remove wildness.

But bees remind us that a healthy environment is not supposed to look sterile.

A slightly messy garden buzzing with life may actually be a sign that nature is doing exactly what it should.

More Than Just Bees

Protecting bees also helps butterflies, birds, hedgehogs and countless other species that rely on thriving ecosystems.

In many ways, bees are a warning light for the wider health of the planet.

If pollinators are struggling, the environment itself is struggling.

So this World Bee Day, perhaps the most important thing we can do is not simply admire bees — but rethink the way we interact with the natural world around us.

Because once the buzz disappears, getting it back may be far harder than we imagine.

The Slow Loris Is Fighting Back Against the Illegal Pet Trade

There are some animals that instantly melt hearts online. 

The slow loris, with its enormous eyes, tiny hands and teddy-bear appearance, is one of them.

But behind many of those “cute” social media videos lies a far darker reality, illegal wildlife trafficking, cruelty and the destruction of endangered species populations.

But now Now there's finally some encouraging news.

Ahead of Endangered Species Day, Indonesian conservation organisation Yayasan Inisiasi Alam Rehabilitasi Indonesia (YIARI), working in partnership with International Animal Rescue, has released a powerful new report showing determined conservation work really can make a difference.

The report, Out of the Shadows: Exposing and Opposing Indonesia’s Illegal Slow Loris Trade, reveals how more than a decade of rescue work, education campaigns, law enforcement action and public awareness efforts have helped dramatically reduce the illegal trade in slow lorises across Indonesia.

A “Cute” Animal With A Serious Problem

Slow lorises are among the most heavily trafficked primates in Southeast Asia. Their popularity exploded online after viral videos portrayed them as adorable exotic pets. Sadly, many viewers had no idea these animals are protected species or that the pet trade causes immense suffering.

Wild slow lorises are often captured illegally, transported in terrible conditions and sold through markets or social media groups. In many cases, traders even remove their teeth to stop them biting owners, leaving the animals unable to survive properly in the wild.

According to the report, researchers from YIARI identified activity in at least 469 Facebook groups linked to slow loris trading between 2012 and 2022. More than 5,000 online sale posts were recorded, with at least 4,100 slow lorises being offered for sale online.

Physical wildlife markets also remained a major problem, with surveys recording over 1,300 slow lorises being sold openly.

The Good News? Things Are Changing

What makes this report so important is that it does not simply highlight the problem, it shows that progress is possible.

Over the years, conservationists, law enforcement agencies and policymakers worked together to crack down on wildlife crime. The results have been significant:

111 wildlife crime enforcement cases linked to slow lorises were recorded

1,271 slow lorises were confiscated

Around 78% of cases resulted in arrests

More than half led to successful convictions

Over 1,300 rescued slow lorises were cared for through YIARI’s rehabilitation network

Perhaps even more encouraging is the change in public attitudes.

Back in 2015, around 90% of Instagram content featuring slow lorises presented them as pets or entertainment. By 2022, that kind of content had sharply declined, while educational and conservation-focused posts increased dramatically.

That shift matters because wildlife trafficking often survives on ignorance. The more people understand the damage caused by the exotic pet trade, the less demand there is for these animals.

Conservation Is About People Too

One of the strongest messages in the report is that wildlife conservation is not just about rescuing animals — it is about changing behaviour.

Dr Karmele Llano Sánchez explained that rescue work alone cannot solve the issue if the root causes of wildlife crime are ignored.

Instead, the success seen in Indonesia came from multiple groups working together: charities, journalists, enforcement agencies, government departments and public awareness campaigns all played a role.

Gavin Bruce said the findings prove illegal wildlife trading isn't something most people actually support, many simply did not understand the consequences before.

That's an important reminder in today’s social media age. Viral animal content may look harmless, but it can unintentionally fuel demand for endangered species.

A Rare Piece Of Environmental Good News

Stories about endangered wildlife can often feel overwhelming, but this is one of those rare examples where long-term conservation efforts are clearly working.

It shows that education, awareness and cooperation genuinely can reduce wildlife crime.

For environmental campaigners and animal lovers alike, that is something worth celebrating.

The Out of the Shadows report and companion book are available to download free online:

Indonesian version https://yiari.or.id/publikasi/keluar-dari-bayang-bayang/

English version https://yiari.or.id/publikasi/out-of-the-shadows-exposing-and-opposing-indonesias-illegal-slow-loris-trade/

To learn more about protecting slow lorises and supporting conservation efforts, visit International Animal Rescue’s Slow Loris campaign https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org/animals/slow-loris

Don’t Step On A Bee Day. Why Britain’s Buzziest Little Workers Deserve A Bit More Respect

Every now and then, a novelty awareness day pops up that sounds slightly silly at first glance, and then you realise there is actually a very important message behind it. 

That is certainly true of Don't Step on a Bee Day.

Yes, the title may raise a smile, but the idea behind it is serious. 

Bees are among the most important creatures on the planet, and without them our gardens, countryside, food production and ecosystems would look very different indeed.

Quite simply, bees help keep the world blooming.

Why Bees Matter So Much

Bees are vital pollinators. As they move from flower to flower collecting nectar and pollen, they help plants reproduce. Many of the fruits, vegetables and crops we eat depend heavily on pollination.

Without bees, supermarket shelves would suddenly become a lot less colourful. Apples, strawberries, tomatoes, cucumbers and even coffee all rely, to varying degrees, on pollinators.

In the UK, bees are also essential for supporting wildflowers, hedgerows and natural habitats that countless other species depend upon.

Yet despite their importance, bee populations have faced increasing pressures over recent years due to habitat loss, pesticides, climate change and changing land use.

That is why awareness days like this matter.

The Problem With Panic

One of the biggest issues bees face is human fear.

Many people automatically panic when a bee buzzes nearby, waving their arms around wildly or trying to swat it away. In reality, most bees are not aggressive at all. They are busy gathering food and generally want to avoid trouble as much as we do.

Unlike wasps, bees are usually far more interested in flowers than fizzy drinks or sandwiches.

In fact, if a bee lands near you, the best thing to do is stay calm and let it continue on its way. Most of the time, it will lose interest within seconds.

And of course, literally not stepping on bees is also a very good idea.

Small Changes That Can Help Bees

The good news is that helping bees does not require enormous effort. Small changes can make a genuine difference.

Here are a few bee-friendly ideas:

Plant pollinator-friendly flowers such as lavender, foxgloves and wildflowers

Avoid excessive pesticide use in gardens

Leave parts of your garden slightly wild

Put out shallow water dishes during hot weather

Support local honey producers and bee-friendly farms

Allow dandelions and clover to grow naturally where possible

Even a window box filled with bee-friendly plants can become a valuable feeding stop.

The Bumblebee Bonus

Britain’s bumblebees are particularly fascinating. Their fuzzy appearance, loud buzzing and rather clumsy flying style make them oddly lovable little creatures.

There is also something reassuringly British about seeing a bumblebee slowly drifting around a summer garden while everyone debates whether it is warm enough for a barbecue yet.

A Day Worth Buzzing About

So yes, Don't Step on a Bee Day may sound light-hearted, but it carries an important reminder.

Bees are not just background noise to summer. They are essential workers quietly helping nature function every single day.

The least we can do is watch where we are putting our feet on July 10th and every other day, too!

https://beegood.co.uk

World Penguin Day: Why These Beautiful, Brilliant Birds Need Our Help

Every year on 25 April, World Penguin Day gives us the perfect excuse to celebrate one of nature’s most charming and recognisable creatures. 

Many Penguins may look like they are dressed for a formal dinner, but behind the waddles and adorable looks lies a serious environmental story.

For That’s Green, World Penguin Day is not just about cute photos and novelty socks featuring emperor penguins. 

It is about understanding why these remarkable birds matter and why protecting them matters even more.

Penguins are some of the most specialised birds on Earth. Found mainly in the Southern Hemisphere, they have evolved to thrive in some of the harshest environments imaginable, from the icy extremes of Antarctica to the rocky coasts of South Africa, South America, Australia, and New Zealand.

Species such as the Emperor Penguin and the Adélie Penguin depend heavily on stable sea ice for breeding and feeding. Others, like the African Penguin, face pressure from warming oceans, overfishing, and habitat destruction.

Climate change is one of the biggest threats penguins face. Rising global temperatures are melting Antarctic ice, disrupting breeding colonies, and altering the delicate marine food chains penguins rely on. If krill populations decline because of warming seas and changing ice patterns, entire penguin colonies can struggle to survive.

Plastic pollution is another major issue. Marine debris can entangle penguins or be mistaken for food. Oil spills also remain a serious risk, especially for coastal species. Even tourism, when poorly managed, can disturb nesting sites and fragile habitats.

The World Wildlife Fund and groups such as BirdLife International continue to work on penguin conservation, habitat protection, and marine preservation. But conservation cannot rely on charities alone.

Small actions matter.

Choosing sustainable seafood helps protect marine ecosystems. Reducing plastic use keeps oceans cleaner. Supporting reputable wildlife charities helps fund rescue and conservation work. Even simply learning more and raising awareness can make a difference.

World Penguin Day also reminds us that wildlife conservation is often connected to much bigger global choices. Cleaner energy, lower emissions, and stronger protection for our oceans all help species far beyond our own back gardens.

Penguins may live thousands of miles away from most of us in the UK, but their future is tied to the same planet we all share.

So yes, enjoy the penguin documentaries, the penguin memes, and perhaps even the penguin-themed mug. But also take a moment to think about what these extraordinary birds are telling us.

When penguins struggle, it is often a warning that the wider planet is struggling too.

And that is something we should all be paying attention to.

https://support.wwf.org.uk/adopt-a-penguin

#WorldPenguinDay 

Why the Tesla, Inc. Powerwall Is Changing the Way We Think About Home Energy

For years, solar panels have been seen as the poster child of greener living.

But there has always been one obvious problem: what happens when the sun goes down?

That's where the Tesla, Inc. Powerwall steps in.

It's not a futuristic gadget for tech enthusiasts with too much disposable income. It's a practical home battery designed to store electricity generated by solar panels, or even cheaper off-peak electricity from the grid,. so you can use it later when you actually need it.

In simple terms, it helps your home become smarter, greener and a lot less dependent on the grid.

Tesla describes Powerwall as a compact home battery that stores energy generated by solar or from the grid, allowing homeowners to use that power day and night, including during outages. It also offers customisable power modes for backup protection and electricity bill savings.

That matters more than ever in the UK, where energy prices remain unpredictable and more households are looking for ways to cut long-term costs rather than simply complain about the latest bill over a cup of tea.

Powerwall can also provide backup during power cuts. Unlike noisy generators that sound like someone has started a lawnmower indoors, it switches automatically to stored energy when the grid goes down. 

Tesla says severe weather preparation features can even automatically charge the battery when outages are forecast.

The current system offers 13.5 kWh of energy capacity, enough to make a meaningful difference for many households, especially when paired with solar panels.

Of course, it's not cheap. Installation costs can be significant, and it works best when properly matched to your home’s energy use. It is not a magic money-printing box attached to your wall.

But for households serious about reducing carbon emissions, improving energy resilience and making better use of renewable power, it is a strong option worth exploring.

The real appeal of Powerwall is not just the sleek design or the famous badge on the front. It is the idea of energy independence.

Use less. Waste less. Panic less when the lights flicker.

That feels very green indeed.

Because the future of sustainability is not just generating clean power, it's being smart enough to keep it for when you need it.

https://www.tesla.com/en_gb/powerwall

SocialBox.Biz Champions “Reuse Before IT Disposal” for Earth Day 2026

In celebration of Earth Day 2026, SocialBox.Biz has announced a strategic call to London businesses to rethink their computer hardware life-cycle strategies.

This is the core message of the "Call SocialBox.Biz First" initiative. 

By contacting SocialBox.Biz first, companies ensure their functional IT equipment goes towards more high-impact reuse with SocialBoxBiz.

The initiative highlights a shift from traditional computer recycling to a "reuse-first" model with SocialBoxBiz, emphasising the dual benefits of environmental sustainability and social equity such as older adults supported by Age UKs in London.

A recently published case study by Age UK Islington (view here: https://shorturl.at/iAKxI) showcases the tangible impact of this collaboration.

 By diverting functional IT hardware from recycling scrap heaps, SocialBox.Biz provides repurposed laptops and tablets to disadvantaged individuals, including older adults who rely on computer access for essential services and social connection.

"With the growing concern over the environmental impact of decommissioned technology, this partnership serves as a timely call to action," a spokesperson for SocialBox.Biz told That's Green.

"By choosing to donate and reuse before they recycle, London companies can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while helping provide computer access to those who can not afford computer hardware or software in our local communities."

Key highlights of the Earth Day 2026 campaign include:

Environmental Protection: Promoting reuse as a superior alternative to recycling, saving an average of 316kg of CO2 per laptop.

Social Empowerment: Providing technology to disadvantaged groups and older adults.

Corporate Responsibility: Helping London firms meet impact targets through secure, data-wiped hardware reuse and donations.

As Earth Day 2026 approaches, SocialBox.Biz are calling on business leaders to pledge their old, functional IT equipment to this cause.To learn more about the IT reuse program or to arrange a collection, please visit https://www.socialbox.biz/.

That's Business: Why Industrial Heat Pumps Are Becoming Big Business

That's Business: Why Industrial Heat Pumps Are Becoming Big Business: For years, industrial heating has been one of the biggest hidden contributors to carbon emissions.  Behind factories, paper mills, chemical ...

Scientists Forecast ‘Godzilla’ El Niño Threat in 2026

Forest Fires in Indonesia Risk Triggering Global Impacts on Climate and Biodiversity.

Forests across Indonesia face increased fire risk this year as climate scientists forecast a strong El Niño event in 2026, with some discussions referring to it as a “Super” or “Godzilla” El Niño.

This phenomenon is expected to be intensified by a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), potentially leading to a longer and drier dry season and significantly reduced rainfall across many parts of Indonesia. 

These two phenomena are projected to occur simultaneously starting in April 2026, raising serious concerns about increasing risks of forest and land fires with impacts that could extend beyond local landscapes to global climate systems.

The combination of these climate patterns causes rain clouds to concentrate over the Pacific Ocean while Indonesia experiences significant drought conditions. This situation is expected to persist throughout the 2026 dry season, from April to October.

In Ketapang, West Kalimantan, the conditions have been unseasonally dry since February 2026. Forest fires have already occurred, including fires that reached the YIARI restoration area within the Pematang Gadung Village Forest. This landscape has been undergoing restoration efforts to recover after severe fires in 2015 and 2017. 

While El Niño is naturally occurring, the extreme dry conditions are exacerbated by climate change, forest loss and land use changes. The current situation serves as a serious warning that the climate crisis is no longer a distant threat, but something already being experienced directly on the ground.

Dr. Karmele Llano Sanchez, CEO of YIARI, partner of International Animal Rescue, explained that for tropical forest landscapes in Kalimantan, the combination of El Niño, land-use change, forest degradation, and the broader climate crisis creates an extremely dangerous situation. 

She told That's Green: “Forests that have been cleared, converted, or affected by extractive activities become far more vulnerable to fire. The risk multiplies in areas that have lost natural forest cover and in peatland landscapes that are drying out. When fire emerges in such areas, the impact goes beyond the loss of vegetation—it accelerates global warming and has the potential to create even more extreme crises.”

“This is exactly what occurred during February and March in the Pematang Gadung Village Forest. As surrounding areas became dry and fuel loads increased, some land was burned for agricultural and plantation purposes. 

These fires then spread rapidly and expanded. We are seeing warning signs long before the peak of the dry season arrives, and this is deeply concerning. Conditions are already far drier than usual, even though the dry season has not yet reached its peak. When rain stops for longer periods, vegetation dries out, water sources shrink, and degraded landscapes become highly flammable,” she added.

Thanks to quick action on the ground, the fires have been prevented from spreading further. A joint firefighting team consisting of local communities, government authorities, and YIARI staff, worked continuously under extreme heat and weather conditions. 

With approximately 45 hectares affected, these efforts successfully prevented the fire from spreading into larger forest areas with high conservation value.

Local communities served as the frontline in early detection and initial firefighting, while government support through coordination and resources, combined with YIARI’s field readiness, strengthened the overall response. Without this multi-stakeholder collaboration, the fires could have spread exponentially, threatening more habitats, increasing carbon emissions, and amplifying risks to public health and safety.

According to Karmele, the threat of forest and land fires is not only about the loss of trees or damaged landscapes. The impacts extend widely across biodiversity, climate systems, and human health. “When forests burn, we lose habitats and push wildlife closer to extinction. 

Orangutans, sun bears, clouded leopards, and many other species that depend on tropical forests lose their living space, food sources, and protection. At the same time, smoke from fires threatens public health, particularly for children, the elderly, and vulnerable communities who must breathe hazardous air for days or even weeks.”

International Animal Rescue’s CEO, Gavin Bruce, said: “We have experienced these extreme El Niño events in the past and witnessed the devastation to nature and the wellbeing of the local people. We know what could be coming and we must act fast to do all we can to mitigate the threat. With the right equipment and training, and by empowering the forest-edge communities, we can scale up the prevention efforts and do all we can to limit the destruction.

Past experience shows how severe the risks can become if such threats are not addressed early. The 2015–2016 El Niño event, one of the strongest on record, triggered massive forest fires across several regions of the world, including Southeast Asia. In Indonesia, fires during that period caused a severe haze crisis, becoming both an environmental disaster and a major public health emergency. In 2015 alone, YIARI rescued no fewer than 44 orangutans affected by the large-scale forest and land fires.

Karmele emphasized that prevention remains the most critical line of defence. “In extreme conditions, not every fire can be completely prevented. However, with proper preparation, early monitoring, strong community involvement, adequate equipment, and rapid response in high-risk areas, we can slow the spread of fires, protect high-conservation-value forests, and reduce broader damage. Time is a crucial factor. Every day without preparedness increases the risk.”

YIARI is currently strengthening a range of mitigation measures on the ground, including increased fire preparedness, patrols, monitoring of high-risk hotspots, and close collaboration with communities as the first line of defence across forest landscapes. 

Community-based initiatives such as The Power of Mama also play an important role in protecting nature, highlighting how women at the grassroots level have a vital role in safeguarding their territories from fire and environmental destruction. This approach is not only essential for protecting wildlife, but also for safeguarding public health, livelihoods, and the safety of communities living alongside fire-prone landscapes.

Experts agree that we can no longer treat these annual forest fires in Indonesia as routine seasonal disasters. Every hectare of forest burned represents a loss of biodiversity, an increase in carbon emissions, worsening air quality, and growing pressure on both people and wildlife.

The warning is now here. Prepare now or risk losing millions of hectares to fire this 2026 El Niño.

You can find out more and help us prepare and prevent a catastrophic fire situation here: https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org/appeal/fire-crisis-fund

Leading Shipowners embrace partnership model for sustainable vessel recycling

Wreckdock is witnessing a fundamental shift in how the maritime industry approaches vessel decommissioning, as prominent shipowners join the platform as long-term partners rather than seeking one-off recycling contracts. 

This partnership model centers on shared governance, transparency, and strategic alignment at board level, marking a departure from purely transactional approaches.

The development reflects a broader industry recognition that responsible end-of-life solutions require sustained commitment beyond immediate commercial considerations.

A governance-based approach to ship recycling

Unlike conventional recycling arrangements, Wreckdock's partnership structure integrates shipowners into decision-making processes that shape industry standards. 

This model creates accountability mechanisms that extend throughout the vessel's final journey, helping ensure practices align with environmental and social responsibility commitments made at the corporate governance level. 

The approach responds to growing pressure from investors, regulators and civil society for demonstrable sustainability outcomes in maritime operations.

The partnerships reflect increasing awareness that conventional ship breaking practices carry reputational and regulatory risks that companies can no longer afford to overlook. 

By embedding environmental justice principles into decommissioning frameworks, participating shipowners acknowledge that operational responsibility extends to a vessel's entire lifecycle.

Industry maturation beyond optimisation

"We're observing a maturation in how serious shipowners think about their environmental footprint," Erwin Jager, spokesperson and CEO of Wreckdock told That's Green. 

"These partnerships show that companies increasingly understand responsible recycling as a strategic imperative, not merely a compliance exercise. The shift from transactional thinking to collaborative governance represents the kind of systemic change our industry needs."

This evolution comes as international regulations tighten around ship recycling practices, with frameworks like the Hong Kong Convention establishing clearer standards for safe and environmentally sound breaking. 

Shipowners joining Wreckdock position themselves ahead of regulatory developments while contributing to improved industry-wide practices.

Alternatives to harmful practices

The partnership model offers shipowners credible alternatives to facilities that continue operating under conditions harmful to workers and communities in developing regions. By choosing platforms committed to clean and safe recycling, companies can reduce the likelihood that their vessels contribute to the environmental and social damage associated with beaching practices still prevalent in parts of South Asia.

FACTFILE:

Wreckdock operates a secure ship recycling facility that ensures clean, safe and equitable practices while providing workers with decent employment conditions. The platform's commitment to sustainable decommissioning is based on respect for human rights, workers' rights and principles of global environmental justice. Wreckdock aims to act as a catalyst for transforming global ship recycling through effective advocacy and operational excellence.

https://www.wreckdock.com

Landscape of globally rare habitat restored near Loch Ness in one of first and largest projects of its kind in Scotland

Image courtesy James Shooter Rewilding Europe

In one of the first and biggest projects of its kind in Scotland, a landscape of over1,000 hectares of a globally rare and threatened habitat is being restored near Loch Ness, as part of Britain’s largest rewilding initiative.

A partnership of charities, landowners and businesses has joined together to save and repair a connected area of blanket bog, among the world’s rarest habitats,across three neighbouring and diverse landholdings.

It has been facilitated by charity Rewilding Affric Highlands, which coordinates a growing partnership of landowners forming the Affric Highlands landscape. Peatland restoration consultancy Caledonian Climate is providing expert advice and support.

The 1,024 hectare-project is being carried out across rewilding charity Trees for Life’s Dundreggan estate, privately owned land at Guisachan, and Corrimony Farm.

“This is about restoring a whole ecosystem at landscape scale, with a shared commitment to tackling the nature and climate emergencies and benefitting local communities,” Stephanie Kiel, Rewilding Affric Highlands executive director told That's Green.

Healthy peatlands are one of the planet’s most efficient carbon sinks. They also reduce flood and wildfire risk by regulating water movement, filter and clean water, and support a unique range of wildlife and plants.

Scotland contains 13% of the world’s blanket bog, a type of peatland found in only a few parts of the world with cool, wet or oceanic climates. 

But 80% of the country’s peatlands are degraded, for reasons including drainage, extraction for fuel, overgrazing, and wildfires.

Overgrazing and trampling by high numbers of deer, for example, damages the thin layer of vegetation and prevents natural regeneration of bog plants. The exposed peat then dries out and erodes, worsening climate change by releasing rather than absorbing carbon dioxide.

The Affric Highlands peatland project includes 464 hectares at Trees for Life’s Dundreggan estate in Glenmoriston, 315 hectares at Corrimony Farm, and 245 hectares at Guisachan.

This ecologically important landscape encompasses Lochs ma Stac, na Beinne Baine, and Liath. It is home to moorland and wetland birds including dunlin, golden plover, and black-throated divers, as well as otters, water voles, lizards, and invertebrates.

With backing and funding from a British Dragonfly Society project, supported by the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration Fund, managed by NatureScot, breeding pools are being restored for dragonflies across all the landholdings. It's hoped this will benefit rare, threatened bog species, the white-faced darter, azure hawker, and northern emerald.

The project will also benefit peatland plants including dwarf birch, sundews, alpine bearberry, cloudberry, and sphagnum mosses.

David Girvan of Corrimony Farm, an upland working farm with about 150 suckler cows and 180 breeding ewes, told us: “We’re showing that farming can work well with peatland restoration, which makes a real difference for keeping carbon locked up. It’s good to see such a big area across different estates being restored together.”

Advanced techniques are being used across the landholdings to halt erosion, raise the water table, and revegetate bare peat areas. Reprofiling peat hags – ridges of eroded dry soil on which vegetation can’t re-establish, and gullies prevents erosion. Drain blocking and dam constructions can rewet the bog and aid regeneration of sphagnum moss.

Sphagnum moss reintroduction through transplants is another key strategy. This species can hold up to 20 times its weight in water, and promotes the waterlogged, acidic conditions needed for revegetation and peat formation.

“This cross-boundary project should be beneficial to a wide range of species. Several years of careful planning and organisation should create long-term biodiversity benefit,” said Alex Grigg, at Guisachan.

Peat is a black spongy soil, formed from accumulated layers of sphagnum and other vegetation in waterlogged conditions. A single metre of peat can take 1,000 years to form.

“Peatlands are amazing, wild places that are being lost worldwide. With our neighbours, we want this initiative to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for restoring blanket bog across Scotland,” said Gwen Raes, Trees for Life’s Dundreggan estate manager.

Funders include Peatland ACTION, Wilderway, and Alex Grigg. In a further example of innovation, The Peatland Restoration Foundation (PRF), a new initiative led by a group of five individual food and drink companies – PEAT’D, Suntory Global Spirits, Bruichladdich, Isle of Raasay and Inchdairnie – are co-funding the restoration at Corrimony Farm.

The PRF brings together organisations using peat commercially to provide an accessible pathway to ensure that any food or drink company can restore more peat than they use.

Caledonian Climate and Wilderway will carry undertake monitoring for the IUCN’s Peatland Code, to ensure the project delivers lasting biodiversity and climate benefits. Independent verification will ensure transparency of results.

Affric Highlands, Britain’s largest rewilding landscape, and a member of Rewilding Europe’s family of major European-wide flagship rewilding landscapes, brings together a coalition of landowners, local people, charities, businesses and others to boost biodiversity, tackle climate change, and create social and economic opportunities.

It aims to restore nature across in excess of 200,000 hectares of the central Highlands, through a linked network of landholdings from Loch Ness to Kintail. See affrichighlands.org.

From Plantation Waste to Wardrobe: How Banana Farming Is Inspiring Sustainable Materials

Every year, millions of tonnes of bananas are harvested around the world. Yet few people realise that the fruit we eat represents only a tiny portion of the banana plant. 

Once a bunch of bananas is harvested, the rest of the plant, including the thick trunk-like pseudostem, leaves, and fibres, is often discarded. 

Traditionally, this agricultural waste has been left to rot in fields or burned, contributing little value and sometimes adding to environmental problems.

Today, however, a growing number of innovators, designers, and agricultural researchers are transforming this waste into something remarkable: sustainable materials that can be used for clothing, textiles, packaging, and even construction.

Turning Banana Waste into Fibre

Banana plants are rich in strong natural fibres. These fibres can be extracted from the plant’s pseudostem, the thick stalk that supports the fruit, after harvesting. 

Instead of being discarded, the stalk can be processed using mechanical decorticators that separate the fibres from the plant pulp.

The resulting banana fibre is surprisingly versatile. It is naturally biodegradable, strong, and breathable, making it suitable for a wide range of textile applications. 

In some regions, particularly in parts of Asia, banana fibre has been used traditionally for centuries to produce fabrics, ropes, and mats.

Modern technology is now taking this age-old material to a new level. Innovative start-ups are refining the fibre to create soft yarns that can be blended with cotton, hemp, or recycled textiles. 

The result is a durable and environmentally friendly fabric that requires far fewer resources than many conventional materials.

Fashion Meets Sustainability

Several sustainable fashion brands have begun experimenting with banana-based textiles. Designers are using banana fibre to produce clothing such as jackets, shirts, and accessories that combine durability with a low environmental footprint.

Unlike synthetic fabrics derived from petroleum, banana fibre is entirely plant-based and biodegradable. Using agricultural by-products rather than newly grown crops also reduces pressure on land and water resources.

Some textile innovators are even developing leather-like materials made from banana plant waste. These alternatives to animal leather are gaining attention from environmentally conscious designers who want cruelty-free, low-impact materials.

Benefits for Farmers and the Environment

Beyond sustainability, banana fibre production offers an important economic opportunity for farmers. Instead of throwing away plant residues, growers can sell banana stems to fibre processors or operate small-scale fibre extraction units themselves.

This additional income stream can help support rural farming communities while reducing agricultural waste.

From an environmental perspective, utilising banana plant waste helps reduce methane emissions that can occur when organic material decomposes in large quantities. It also cuts down on the need for synthetic fibres, which often release microplastics into waterways.

A Circular Future for Agriculture

The banana industry is beginning to embrace a circular economy approach, one where nothing is wasted and every part of the crop has value. Fruit feeds the world, while stems and fibres can clothe it.

As consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of fast fashion and wasteful production systems, innovative materials like banana fibre offer a glimpse of a more sustainable future.

In the years ahead, the humble banana plant may not just be known for the fruit in your lunchbox — but also for the shirt on your back. 

Hope Spring Signs MoU to Expand Water Poverty Alleviation Training

A new partnership between Hope Spring Water and Haba Naija is set to strengthen efforts to tackle water poverty in underserved regions of Nigeria through training, volunteering, and grassroots engagement.

Under the agreement, Haba Naija staff in Nigeria will undergo structured training delivered by Hope Spring Water, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to support water poverty alleviation workshops. The initiative aims to extend Hope Spring Water’s reach into parts of Nigeria where it currently has limited or no operational presence, ensuring that more communities benefit from sustainable water education and intervention programmes.

Speaking on the partnership, Tomi Onigbinde highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving impact: “This partnership represents a powerful step forward in our mission to combat water poverty. 

"By working with Haba Naija, we are not only expanding our reach but also empowering local teams with the skills and knowledge needed to create lasting change within their own communities. Sustainable impact begins with local involvement, and this initiative brings that vision to life.”

The training programme will focus on key areas such as community engagement, water sanitation awareness, project implementation strategies, and monitoring impact outcomes. Trained volunteers will then support outreach workshops across targeted regions, helping to educate communities about safe water practices while identifying areas in need of intervention.

Bujola Ogunremi also expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “At Haba Naija, we are deeply committed to initiatives that create meaningful impact across Nigeria. Partnering with Hope Spring Water allows us to leverage our local presence and network to support an important cause. Our team is excited to contribute directly to improving lives by helping extend access to clean water education and solutions.”

This partnership reflects a growing recognition of the role digital platforms can play in supporting real-world development initiatives. By combining Hope Spring Water’s expertise in water poverty solutions with Haba Naija’s local reach and influence, the collaboration is expected to accelerate awareness, engagement, and action.

Both organisations believe the initiative will serve as a scalable model for future partnerships aimed at addressing critical social challenges across Nigeria and beyond.

https://www.hopespring.org.uk

Celebrating World Heritage Day: Protecting the Stories of Our Past

Every year on 18 April, people around the globe mark World Heritage Day, also known as the International Day for Monuments and Sites.

It is a day dedicated to recognising and protecting the cultural landmarks, historic sites, and natural wonders that tell the story of humanity.

From ancient ruins and medieval castles to sacred landscapes and historic cities, these places are far more than tourist attractions. They are living reminders of the people, traditions, and events that have shaped the world we live in today.

What Is World Heritage Day?

World Heritage Day was established in 1982 by the International Council on Monuments and Sites and later endorsed by UNESCO. The aim is simple but powerful: to raise awareness about the importance of cultural heritage and the need to preserve it for future generations.

Across the world, museums, heritage sites, and cultural organisations mark the day with special events, educational programmes, guided tours, and conservation campaigns.

Britain’s Remarkable World Heritage Sites

The United Kingdom is home to an extraordinary collection of World Heritage Sites that highlight thousands of years of history. These sites reflect everything from prehistoric engineering to industrial innovation.

Some of the most famous include:

Stonehenge – one of the most iconic prehistoric monuments in the world.

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stonehenge/

Tower of London – a fortress, royal palace and prison steeped in centuries of royal intrigue.

https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/

Ironbridge Gorge – widely regarded as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/shropshire-staffordshire/ironbridge-gorge

Edinburgh Old and New Towns – showcasing dramatic medieval and Georgian architecture.

https://www.historicenvironment.scot/advice-and-support/listing-scheduling-and-designations/world-heritage-sites/old-and-new-towns-of-edinburgh/

Each site carries its own unique story and reminds us how innovation, culture, and community have shaped the British landscape.

Why Heritage Protection Matters

Historic sites are vulnerable. Climate change, urban development, pollution, tourism pressure, and neglect can all threaten fragile structures and landscapes.

World Heritage Day highlights the importance of conservation work carried out by archaeologists, historians, architects, and volunteers who dedicate their efforts to safeguarding these places.

Protecting heritage is not simply about preserving buildings. It is about protecting identity, culture, and memory.

How You Can Celebrate World Heritage Day

You do not have to travel far to participate. Consider:

Visiting a local historic site or heritage attraction

Supporting heritage charities and conservation organisations

Learning about the history of your town or village

Sharing photos or stories of heritage places you love

Even a walk through a historic high street or countryside landmark can reveal fascinating glimpses into the past.

A Shared Global Legacy

World Heritage Day is a reminder that the treasures of the past belong to all of us. By protecting historic places today, we ensure that future generations can continue to learn from them, explore them, and be inspired by them.

After all, heritage is not just about where we have been, it helps shape where we are going next.