Put simply, biodiversity refers to the variety of life on earth and their interactions, from the smallest bacteria to the largest mammals, including us humans. Unfortunately, we know that biodiversity in Ireland is in trouble – 85% of our key habitats are classified as being in poor condition, our bogs have changed from being carbon sinks to CO2 emitters, important pollinators and other insects are in decline, and cherished, once-common birds such as puffins and swifts are now on the red list, threatened with extinction.
Why does this matter?
Because we know intuitively, and this is backed up by extensive research, that the health and wellbeing of people is intimately connected to the health and wellbeing of the natural world around us. Nature is not ‘over there’ somewhere, it is the water we drink and the food we eat, it is the trees and plants in our parks and gardens, the birdsong we hear, the beaches and woods we flock to at weekends – we are part of nature, and we do not flourish if we are deprived of it.
This is true at a community level too. Degraded ecosystems impact badly on rural communities, and the disadvantage experienced by many urban areas is exacerbated by lack of access to green spaces, polluted air and kids suffering from what has been termed ‘nature deficit syndrome’.
Nature helps us!
Studies around the world have shown that being in green or blue natural environments reduces stress hormones and blood pressure, helps symptoms of depression and anxiety, improves our ability to concentrate, creates feelings of well-being and mitigates loneliness. Research has even shown that patients in hospital recover more quickly, and students in exam halls perform better when they look out onto green spaces instead of concrete.
Can we help nature?
People who feel connected to nature are more likely to advocate for the environment. Let’s get the kids outside, regularly, as a family or through initiatives like Forest School – not only will it assist their development, but as they relate to the natural world and learn to love it, it becomes a valued part of their lives and they will likely fight for it as adults.
Supporting biodiversity is at the heart of Brigit’s Garden, and there is so much that we can all do. Many small steps add up to making a big difference.
Embrace wild!
We can start to see dandelions, buttercups and other ‘weeds’ as the precious wildflowers they are. Briars and nettles too. They don’t need to be everywhere, but allowing flowers in the lawn or a wild patch in a garden really helps. Pollinators need nectar-rich flowers and butterflies need their host plants.
No Mow May?
Large sections of Brigit’s Garden are No Mow all summer, with just one cut in the autumn. Great for so many insect and bird species.
Bin the chemicals!
Not only do pesticides and herbicides kill bees and other insects, they also disrupt the microbiome of the soil.
Plant native! Native ecosystems are all connected, so native wildflowers and trees generally support more biodiversity. An oak, for example, can host over a thousand species, from fungi to mammals. A native hedgerow is so much richer than one made up of a single, non-native species.
Water is great!
Even a small pond is fantastic for biodiversity – water beetles, dragon and damselflies, frogs and newts.
Get the nature bug! The more you know the more fascinating it all becomes. Spend time outside, observe, listen and enjoy! There are great apps and identification books to help.
Take action, wherever you can! For the more we support nature, the more nature supports and nourishes us in so many ways.
By Jenny Beale