On 17 October 2024, we enjoyed an inspiring and moving talk by Peter Taylor, author and ecologist.
Peter discussed the role that rewilding is already playing in restoring biodiversity to areas of the UK, as well as overseas. Not only does this help habits recover from human development and agricultural pressures, it makes them better able to cope with changes in climate and weather and, as Peter explained, helps to bring home the ‘soul’ of local ecology.
We discussed the UK’s ancient Atlantic Oak Forest which, during the last interglacial period, was home to our very own species of elephant, rhino and hippo. We also looked at rewilding reintroduction success stories such as red kites, beavers and white tailed eagles.
Importantly, Peter showed that no project can be successful if human neighbours are excluded and overlooked. To work, rewilding needs to be a collaborative and sensitive transformation which involves people at every age, making the landscape something for them to be responsible for and treasure.
You can find out more about Peter Taylor and his work on Wikipedia.
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