Need for more rewilding

Rewilding has become a popular way to restore biodiversity, address climate change and improve the planet. There have been the big projects, like Knepp in Sussex - an early convert to the process. The rewilding on farmland at Knepp began in the early noughties. So the farmland was allowed to go wild, with fascinating results, including, soil restoration, flood mitigation, air purification and carbon sequestration. There have also been wildlife successes, like the proliferation of nightingales and turtledoves. Numerous butterflies, including the Purple Emperor are present as well as a multiplying bat population. In other areas, species like the beaver have been reintroduced, helping counter flooding with the heavier rainfalls. At a more local level, there have been the grow zones in Redbridge. These are areas where the land has been just left alone to rewild. There are grow zones on George and Christchurch Greens plus the Roding Valley. The flourishing grasses and wild flowers are a sight to behold. There are also some lovely areas in Newham, such as coming down from the cycledrome in the Olympic Park to the River Lea. Here there are fabulous combinations of wild grasses and poppies. These developments improve biodiversity as well as helping reduce carbon, thereby addressing climate change. They also provide a magnificent uplifting sight for those passing by. It is important though to communicate what is going on to the wider population. Those not in the know can assume it is the council just not cutting the grass. Well, that is true but it is deliberately, on purpose, for all the earlier reasons stated -not because they can't be bothered or cannot afford to do the task. It is important for local authorities to communicate what is going on. Around the country it is not unusual to see outcries against good rewilding practice. It has been the desire of human beings to dominate and exploit, rather than work with nature that has brought the biodiversity and climate crisis. There needs to be more rewilding across the country, in public and private spaces. Take up some of that concrete and let the earth breath. There are encouraging developments but more can always be done, individually and as part of the community. But communication about what is going on is also a key part of the process.