Introduction

Small Ripples to Great Waves

H o w t h e a c t i o n s o f m a n y i n d i v i d u a l s c a n c r e a t e a w a v e of change

The River Severn is the UK’s longest river, stretching 220 miles from its source in Plynlimon, Wales to eventually becoming the estuary that forms part of the border between Wales and England. Containing the second largest tidal range on the planet and an abundance of silt and debris, the River Severn has formed wetlands, mudflats, floodplains and lagoons which provide habitats for a vast array of different species of wildlife. These areas are often only home temporarily for these animals - migratory birds tend to leave in spring and return for each winter, while many species of fish and eels use the river at specific points in their life cycle for breeding or feeding. Others remain in or near to the Severn all year round. With global warming, pollution and an ever-increasing world population, the environment is under more pressure than ever and people are increasingly having to intervene in order to protect wildlife from the impacts of humankind. The introduction of non-native species of animals and plants as well as the changing uses of land also have huge and often unpredictable impacts on the flora and fauna of an area.

Collectively, mankind is becoming more aware of the true scale of the impact we are having on our planet. Scientists have known for years how unsustainable modern life is, and now the general public is also slowly beginning to understand the need for change. Over 6 million people live by the River Severn, and many passionate individuals are dedicating their time to the cause of conservation, aiming to preserve the beauty and diversity of this important and historic river. The people photographed for this project come from a wide range of backgrounds and all have different reasons and motivations for doing what they do. Some are passionate about a certain species of animal or plant and are dedicated to helping them increase their numbers. They may also feel strongly that everyone has a duty of care to the environment and they want to spend time educating and recruiting others to help. Some of these individuals are paid for their work and have chosen to make conservation their full-time job, whilst others are giving up their free time voluntarily to help causes they are passionate about. The locals who enjoy seeing wildlife on their doorstep and take small steps to keep the area safe for these animals are no less important than those paid for doing highly scientific research or organising large-scale projects. It can seem daunting to think about how to go about protecting the planet and the wildlife that lives here, but there are many things that can be done relatively easily. Donations can be made to support environmental charities without even leaving the house. Simple actions can have more impact than we realise, and if we can inspire others to think about what changes they can make in their lives to help protect the area in which they live, then something that starts off as a small act of environmental kindness can quickly ripple and become a wave of change for the better.