The most powerful response to the climate and biodiversity emergency is human connection with nature, and with each other. As people grow increasingly disconnected from the natural world, I see education and community engagement as vital tools for change. This is why I became a Community Ecologist and why I think the Nature Together project could change Bristol for the better, for people and nature alike.

Nature Together grew out of a partnership initiative called Nature Towns and Cities, a collaboration between Natural England, the National Trust, and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, with the goal of improving access to urban green spaces across England. Nineteen cities have been selected to take part, and Bristol is one of them.

At its heart, Bristol Nature Together is about making it easier for residents and communities to lead their own environmental projects, from adding trees or planters on a street to a full-scale nature reserve. Right now, if you want to make a green change to your neighbourhood, the process can feel daunting. Who do you ask? Which council department do you contact? 

That's exactly the problem we're trying to solve, through two practical tools. The first is a Green Permit, a straightforward form available online or on paper that anyone, from an individual to a group of neighbours, can fill in when they want to make a green change to their local area. Planting trees, installing planters, creating a wildflower meadow, whatever the scale, the Green Permit aims to give ideas a clear, accessible route forward. The second is a One-Front Door approach: a single webpage where all the relevant information lives, so you can easily find out who to speak to in your area and how to get started. 

We'll be trialling both tools over the next two years with three grassroots community organisations, each awarded £100,000 to develop and deliver their own nature plans. Eastside Community Trust, Bristol Older People's Forum, and Lockleaze Neighbourhood Trust were selected for their strong connections with local residents and commitment to community-led action. 

Each brings a unique perspective: Lockleaze Neighbourhood Trust hopes to become a site of inspiration for urban wilding, Bristol Older People's Forum is excited to place older people at the heart of local nature and climate action, and Eastside Community Trust will build on decades of experience supporting residents to take action in parks and green spaces. Their insights are invaluable in identifying barriers and shaping a system that works for everyone.

Avon Wildlife Trust's role in this project is to provide expertise in ecology and community-led nature recovery. This is where I come in! I’ll do this by understanding the three communities' ambitions and supporting them to develop their ideas in ways that will help shape new council systems and deliver tangible benefits for both people and wildlife across the city.

It's early days, but I'm genuinely excited about the project. Systemic change, driven by the people who know and love their neighbourhoods best.

Learn more about the Nature Together partnership