Welcome to our Engaging with Nature Recovery project area. We need you to get involved!
Our future depends on the natural world. Sir David Attenborough has said that every green space, urban and rural, matters - this means we can all play a part in nature recovery. The natural world is under enormous stress, from various aspects of climate breakdown. We have reached a point where every pocket of habitat left untouched, every tree saved from unnecessary felling, and every weed allowed to grow, really counts. PeCAN can help you to learn more about our local natural landscape and the wildlife existing within it, so that you can do everything you can to help.
When we look after nature, we are building our collective resilience to the climate crisis.
How does PeCAN engage with Nature Recovery?
PeCAN takes as its starting point the devastating State of Nature Report of 2023 which shows the UK scores amongst the worst 10 countries in the world for the condition of its wildlife. We are determined to do something about this on our own patch, by raising awareness of the problems facing the natural world, both on our doorsteps and in our countryside. We aim, through campaigning, advocacy, science-led information and action, to influence the way in which we manage our green spaces, in and around Petersfield.
PeCAN's Nature Recovery work is led by trustees Melanie Oxley and Liz Bisset. We love to hear from fellow nature lovers, and you can reach us at [email protected].
Image above: Duke of Burgundy butterfly
How we can help
Petersfield's Gardens
Through talks and workshops, we will show residents how they can make small, yet hugely beneficial changes to the way in which they garden their private plots of land.
Swift Streets
This project hopes to help Petersfield cultivate a bigger scream of swifts, heading to Africa for the winter and returning in April and May, gracing the sky over our town for years to come.
Pesticide-Free Petersfield
Pesticides and herbicides have been linked to declines in bees and pollinators, birds, mammals, earthworms and soil fertility. Find out more about Petersfield Town Council's pesticide policy.
A Fruit Tree in Every Garden
Trees are a beneficial addition to most gardens, helping with climate regulation and air filtration, and providing valuable habitats for wildlife. You can help by planting a tree in your garden.
Wildflower Verges
Almost half the UK’s flora can be found growing on roadside verges, providing food for the bees, butterflies, birds and bugs that help support other wildlife, and acting as connective corridors.
Our Countryside
New countryside and farming schemes offer real hope by valuing natural capital, increasing biodiversity and rewarding regenerative farming practices. PeCAN will showcase what is being done.