Our local environment is one of the fundamental building blocks in the society we live In today. It is estimated that there is roughly around 14,000 different species of wildlife living in London. Take Richmond Park for example, a borough in south west London home to many ranges of biodiversity, with up to 144 types of species recorded. I went to Richmond park to discover the many ways in which we can conserve our local environment and just how important biodiversity in London truly is. It is saddening just how much our wildlife has declined. In fact, nearly half of Britain's diversity has gone since the industrial revolution.
So, the question still stands what can we do to protect local wildlife? Whilst at Richmond park, I began to research just how important the wildlife truly is. Richmond park is home nearly 170,000 trees, as well as a population of 3 billion ants!
But one of the most iconic features of Richmond park are the deer population. On average there are around 630 deer, who have been roaming freely since 1637. These Deer are crucial in the role of conserving the environment as their grazing of grass prevents seeds from growing so the stunning views of Richmond park can be seen. Despite focusing in on one particular section of land, London’s unique range of wildlife between the contrast of the hustle and bustle of city life, compared to the vast range of beautiful landscape on the outskirts, It is solely important we find ways in which we can healthily protect our wildlife before it is destroyed.
What can we do to help?
Support local farms and markets: Find your nearest farmers market where fresh fruit and vegetables are sources organically. This way, there is a lesser risk of animals being harmed in the process and methods are used to protect their livelyhood as well as yours.
Plant your own fruit and veg:
Sick of buying plastic packaged fruit? Buy your own! This way you know that animals are being protected in the process!
Whilst reflecting on my time spent roaming around Richmond Park, It is evident that we need to conserve our local wildlife on not just a local scale, but as a national scale. We must come together to conserve our environment so animals and wildlife can thrive as one.
