Rewilding: what can we do, and where do I start?

Everyone seems to be talking about 'Rewilding' nowadays. But what exactly is it? In honour of World Rewilding Day, we've put together some top tips on rewilding, and a few places where you can learn more.

The theme of this year's World Rewilding Day on 20 March is 'Hope into Action'. So we've gathered together a few resources for you to learn more about rewilding, as well as tips for rewilding your own space.

Rewild yourself

It's estimated that gardens in Britain cover twice as much land as all our our national nature reserves - if each of our gardens were made just a little wilder, they could really contribute towards the protection of our wildlife species as well as boosting biodiversity and absorbing carbon. Here are some top tips from our friends at Rewilding Britain.

1. Let your grass grow
One of the easiest things we can do is simply allow our grass to grow. By putting down the mower, or just portioning off some of the garden to leave as meadow, you're offering birds and insects a much more diverse ecosystem. Signing up to 'No Mow May' is a great start!

2. Say no to chemicals
The increased use of pesticides and herbicides in the British countryside is sadly contributing to the huge loss of insects we're experiencing. Try switching out fertilisers for a seaweed feed, or try making your own compost heap.

3. Choose wildlife-friendly plants
By introducing some plants that bear seeds and berries, and produce nectar and pollen, you're providing a haven for local wildlife.

4. Water, water, everywhere
Creating a small pond or wetland area is one of the most beneficial things you can do to attract wildlife - but try to avoid having fish, which can have an adverse impact on insects and amphibians. If you're digging a new pond, aim to have a shallow end for newts and frogs.

5. Embrace the weeds!
Shake off the pressure to rid the garden of weeds - they actually provide an excellent source of nectar, seeds, and shelter for insects, birds and small mammals. Leaving a wild patch can offer a home for several species - and give you more time to do other things!

Read all about it

For those that would like to learn more about the power of rewilding, we recommend picking up a book by one of the most knowledgeable and authoritative people in the bizz.

1. Rewild Your Garden serves as a comprehensive guide offering practical advice and creative inspiration for transforming urban landscapes into thriving ecosystems, enriching both the environment and the gardener's connection to nature.
2. Rewild Yourself takes readers on a profound journey of self-discovery, providing a roadmap for reconnecting with our primal roots and embracing a more harmonious existence within the natural world.
3. In Wilding, Isabella Tree chronicles the remarkable story of Knepp Estate's transformation from conventional farmland to a thriving wilderness sanctuary (see podcast below).

...or plug in

Prefer to listen, maybe even while you're attending your rewilded garden?! Find your zen and be inspired by some of the top voices on rewilding and nature.

1. The Rewilding Podcast: in-depth discussions with rewilding experts, exploring various strategies and initiatives aimed at restoring biodiversity. Engaging narratives and practical tips, ideal for both beginners and seasoned rewilding enthusiasts.
2. Rewilding Earth Podcast: Join the conversation on global rewilding efforts with this thought-provoking podcast with insightful guests. From rewilding success stories to discussions on conservation ethics, each episode leaves listeners with a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things.
3. The Rewilding Earth Mission: a journey to the frontlines of global rewilding efforts with stirring stories and examples that are sure to ignite a passion for ecological restoration.
4. The Eco Side podcast: listeners are treated to engaging discussions and practical tips on living sustainably, fostering a deeper connection to nature while empowering us to make meaningful and eco-conscious choices.
5. The Knepp Wildland Podcast: this podcast transports listeners to the heart of a pioneering rewilding project deep in the heart of Sussex. First hand accounts from the project's infectiously enthusiastic ecologist Penny Green unveil the transformative power of nature-led conservation, meeting people along the way.

Our partnership with Rewilding Britain

A year after we announced our partnership with Rewilding Britain, we caught up with Kate Barclay, Head of Fundraising and Partnerships, on how it’s going. Read the interview to find out what we've achieved so far and how you can get involved.

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