As part of the Neighbourhood Nature Plan, local groups have been coming together to discuss and agree on their local nature priorities and sharing these with candidates seeking election.
Over twenty different groups have registered as part of the plan and, despite the tight election timetable, it looks like at least one nature forum will have been held in every constituency in Derbyshire by polling day.
The issues being raised include action for cleaner reviews, better access to nature-rich spaces for people living in cities and towns, support for sustainable farming , calls for pesticide bans and action to reverse the loss of species.
While the most important issues may vary from place to place, what is very clear is that there is overwhelming support for stronger action on nature and climate, and huge frustration at candidates that do not seem to recognise the critical need to take action now.
Jordan Hazell, General Manager at Down to Earth’s Urban Community Garden Electric Daisy says:
“We need our leaders to make nature even more of a priority for cities. Everyone should have equal access to the amazing benefits of living closer to nature, especially in cities. Electric Daisy is a great example of an unused space in the city, now thriving with wildlife and inspiring people of all ages to connect with nature whilst bringing communities together. We need more support for community-led nature restoration right in the centre of our cities.”
Buxton Field Club aims to protect the natural environment and make the case for biodiversity in Buxton. David Purchase, Chair of the Club says:
"We want the next government, and all political parties, to commit to the large-scale restoration of nature. Politicians must recognise that alongside the Climate Emergency we have a Nature Emergency in this country with one in six species at risk of extinction and massive declines across the board, including birds, insect and wildflower numbers and coverage.
“We want politicians to accept that nature has huge value in itself, not just as part of an economic or climate change agenda. But it is also essential to restore nature for its role in carbon sequestration, flood management, food production and our own well-being. We believe all politicians should be doing far more to recognise this crisis and act to restore nature now."
Ben Carter, Director of Development at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust adds:
“The UK, along with countries around the world, has committed to reversing the decline of nature by 2030 and to reaching net zero. The main parties claim they have a plan to meet these goals but if you add up what they have committed to do, it is nowhere near enough.
“This is a vital election. The next parliament is going to be the one that either turns the crisis round, or the one that fails. And we cannot afford that failure. No more nature means no clean water, soil, crops or even air. It does not get any more critical than this.
“Whoever wins both locally and nationally need to know that they are on notice, and that we at the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust stand ready to help these groups and people hold their elected MPs to account, and make sure they deliver a better deal for nature.”
Find out more about the Neighbourhood Nature Plan or find and join your local group here