Staffordshire University is encouraging the public to think about little changes that can make big difference to nature and biodiversity
Webinar 'A Greener Future?' takes place on Wednesday 3 June
Because of the lockdown we are seeing the value of nature and appreciating our green spaces more than even a few months ago.
Friday 5 June marks World Environment Day and next week scientists from the University are hosting free virtual events with advice on how we can all look after the environment.
Dr Eleanor Atkins, Lecturer in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, is hosting #WednesdayWisdom Webinar ‘A Greener Future?’ on 3 June and will explore how the world outside is thriving while we stay indoors during lockdown.
“Because of the lockdown we are seeing the value of nature and appreciating our green spaces more than even a few months ago.” she explained.
“Pollution has reduced, climate change has slowed down and wildlife has flourished since the outbreak began. In this talk, I will be looking at how to make sure this continues when everyday life returns to normal.”
Eleanor has also organised the Great Green Gathering on Saturday 6 June. This interactive ‘talk show’ is aimed at all ages with expert advice and fun activities including how to build a hedgehog home, make pollution monitors and draw insects.
Experts from across Staffordshire University plus community groups including Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and Staffordshire Bat Group will be on hand to answer questions and share what is happening in the local area. Other activities include quizzes, competitions and interactive polls.
Eleanor said: “At Staffordshire University we are passionate about the world around us and educating others, so we were keen to go ahead with the Great Green Gathering despite lockdown.
“The event will be streamed on YouTube so that anyone can tune in and we hope that lots of families will get involved with the activities. Engaging with wildlife and green spaces can have a huge benefits on our physical and mental wellbeing and we hope this event will help to inspire a love of nature in the next generation.”
All activities will be streamed on the Great Green Gathering YouTube Channel from 10am to 2pm on Saturday 6 June. For further information please email greenerstaffs@staffs.ac.uk
#WednesdayWisdom Webinar ‘A Greener Future?’ takes place at 3.30pm - 4pm, Wednesday 3 June – please register here.