Wildlife gardening manifesto launched
Wednesday, 18 Jul 2007 12:39
Children's health can be boosted by gardens
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UK residents are being encouraged to do more with their gardens to boost wildlife diversity.
Leading wildlife and horticultural organisations have signed a gardening manifesto in an effort to save natural gardens, particularly in cities.
According to Sir Martin Doughty, chair of Natural England, in London an area 22 times the size of Hyde Park has been paved over.
This, he claims, has reduced havens for wildlife, increased the impact of flash flooding and contributed to climate change.
"The gardens of England are under threat," he said.
"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."
As well as helping wildlife, the campaigners hope to increase children's interaction with wildlife, as gardens tend to be the first place where youngsters make contact with the natural world.
Their health and focus can also be improved, Natural England claims, as contact with the environment boosts children's mental and physical wellbeing and self-discipline can be improved by 20 per cent by having views of trees or vegetation.
Biodiversity minister Joan Ruddock said the manifesto will "improve gardening advice to young people".
"This is essential because as our climate changes, the network of gardens could help wildlife to adapt and migrate throughout the country," she added.
As part of the manifesto people are encouraged to create ponds and plant colourful flowers to attract bees, butterflies and insects.