Aim to restore a 'Wilder Dorset' by 2030
20% of Dorset's bee species have been lost and flounders are on the decline.
A target's been set to restore a 'Wilder Dorset' by 2030, and inspire communities to learn about what they can do to help nature thrive.
Dorset's wildlife has been in decline because of the impact of climate change. That's included the loss of 20% of Dorset's bee species, some butterflies and the overall decline of others that should be abundant.
Dorset Wildlife Trust has launched a brand-new strategy outlining its vision and plans from now until 2030. ‘A Wilder Dorset by 2030’ explores the challenges facing Dorset’s wildlife and ecology and sets out what it aims to do to make more space for wildlife to adapt and recover and to enable all people in Dorset to find space and time for nature in their lives.
It's hoped it could kickstart a restorative cycle that encourages more species to return and tackle the impact of climate change.
What does a 'Wilder Dorset' look like?
The charity wants to make sure 30% of land and sea is managed 'for nature' by 2030.
Brian Bleese, CEO of DWT, said:
"We want to see nature flourishing in all parts of the landscape. That doesn't mean converting everything into a nature reserve. It means building nature into the farmed lanscape, making more space for nature in our towns and our gardens.
"If we do that nature can help address the issues around climate change. Well managed habitats lock-up carbon, capture carbon."
The charity says farmers are a big part of their plan because farming practices have a large impact on the environment.
Brian said:
"We need them on board and working with us closely to try to make space in the landscape for nature. That doesn't mean turning every farm into a nature reserve, it means looking for opportunities in those landscapes where nature can flourish."
The charity is taking a 3-pronged approach to restore habitats, champion the natural environment and inspire people and communities to learn about, value and act for the natural environment.
Dorset Wildlife Trust is also committed to the need for everyone to reduce their carbon footprint and has set itself the goal of becoming a carbon net-zero organisation by 2030. The new strategy recognises that the ecological emergency and the climate crisis demand collective action at local, national, and global levels and so to demonstrate their commitment to contributing at every level, while focusing on effective local action, Dorset Wildlife Trust has adopted the national logo of The Wildlife Trusts’ partnership.