Groundwork NE & Cumbria at the Nature Returns Conference
Earlier this month, Michele MacCallam from Groundwork NE & Cumbria was delighted to participate in the Nature Returns conference held at Kew. The event brought together over 120 policymakers, practitioners, and scientists from across the country to discuss the latest findings of the Nature Returns programme. With a keynote address from Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England, the conference served as a critical platform for sharing insights and strategies in tackling climate change and biodiversity loss.
Our Role in Nature Returns
Groundwork North East & Cumbria has facilitated a coordinated landscape approach across ten different sites. This effort has engaged a diverse group of partner organisations, landowners, and farmers, leading to the successful creation and restoration of over 250 hectares of habitat across the Wansbeck catchment in Northumberland. This includes:
- Woodland restoration
- Species-rich grassland creation
- Blanket bog conservation
- Planting and restoring 10 kilometres of hedgerows
These efforts not only enhance biodiversity but also contribute significantly to climate resilience and ecosystem health in the region.
A Conference Filled with Insights and Innovation
Reflecting on the event, Mike Morecroft, lead for Nature Returns, shared his enthusiasm:
“It was brilliant to see such keen interest in the programme’s research findings. From learning about the latest discoveries about carbon in soils, woodlands, and hedgerows to discussing the benefits of nature-based solutions and how we can unlock green finance, the day had something for everyone.”
A key highlight was the demonstration room, where scientists from Natural England and Kew showcased cutting-edge technology and innovations in environmental research. The interactive nature of these sessions emphasised the importance of collaboration between the public and third sectors, paving the way for scaling up solutions to climate change and biodiversity challenges.
The Future of Nature-Based Solutions
Nature Returns is a flagship £17.5 million programme funded by HM Treasury, led by Natural England in collaboration with the Environment Agency, RBG Kew, the Forestry Commission, and various local partners. The initiative aims to test and refine nature-based solutions to address environmental challenges while also engaging with green finance opportunities and community involvement.
As Mike Morecroft emphasised, sharing data and evidence across policy and practice is crucial for accelerating the adoption of effective solutions. The insights gained from Nature Returns will help shape future policy and investment decisions, ensuring a more sustainable approach to land management and conservation.
For more information on the Nature Returns programme, visit: Nature Returns | Kew.
Groundwork NE & Cumbria remains committed to supporting local landscapes and communities through collaborative, evidence-based environmental action. The Nature Returns programme offers a unique opportunity to enhance our collective understanding of nature-based solutions and their potential to drive positive change at scale.