Nature

We depend on ecological services to support us so one of the key elements of the CECAP is to educate staff and students about nature to engender a connection and recognition of the vital role nature plays in both supporting our way of life and in mitigating, and adapting to, the climate crisis.

Abagail Croker and JS Jones published a paper about the need for Nature-based Solutions and the Green New Deal to address the combined environmental threats of pollution, climate change and biodiversity loss (https:// theecologist.org/2020/apr/22/after-coronavirus). One of the benefits of the pandemic has been the reconnection of people with nature and the recognition of its importance for both physical and mental health and wellbeing.

During 2020, we have promoted activities that foster this including:

• Delivered activities and awareness-raising campaigns for native species, including a Hedgehog-themed bake off and sharing tips to make gardens species-friendly • Activities during National Gardening Week • Encouraged cycling to enjoy a healthy, nature-based activity (see the travel section for more information). • Put stickers on strimmers to remind the grounds maintenance contractor about protecting hedgehogs when working.

Case study: Dorset Unlocked

Professor Anita Diaz, has co-created with her students the Dorset Unlocked website (https://dorsetunlocked.com) where anyone can share where they enjoy nature or heritage.

A team of students in ecology and archaeology partnered with staff to launch the website. Natalie Harris (pictured), a volunteer from our first year BSc Ecology & Wildlife Conservation degree course, manages the Instagram account. Anita said, “We hope the website inspires people to explore their local nature and heritage and spread a little well-being". Partnership working is the heart of Dorset Unlocked and our Dorset-based students and staff are currently providing lots of great contributions to the interactive map. "It’s rewarding to see Dorset Unlocked growing fast and getting over 100 views a day even during lockdown”. The team welcomes people across BU and the wider Dorset community to join in co-creating Dorset Unlocked.

We hope the website inspires people to explore their local nature and heritage and spread a little well-being.

Professor Anita Diaz