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In the past, people have said "conserving our natural environment is all very well, but what about the 'real' problems?" Clearly one answer is to point out that everyone has to start somewhere, that someone has to look after our local environment and that if every one was a conservation volunteer, the planet would be in much better shape. It is important not to ignore key social issues and anyone providing training should be very aware of this. If achieving sustainable development is to be a real goal, then protecting the environment as well as helping people improve the quality of their lives has to be considered. BTCV is striving to attract people from all sectors of society and is encouraging groups to do the same. Improving access to the natural environment for those with disabilities is one important aspect of our work and we can also offer those who may have limited resources a chance to get directly involved in improving their surroundings. These are direct benefits, albeit limited ones. More important may be how conservation groups can interact with groups working to alleviate social conditions. One way of improving the quality of life in cities might be to look harder for opportunities to do work with community groups in inner city areas. Consider making an approach to your local Council for Voluntary Service or the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action and discuss the possibility of developing new projects with local organisations. Helping improve neglected spots of derelict land in a run down area may not sound as appealing as getting out onto the moors, but it can do a lot to help people have better lives. All this needs careful thought and probably training as well, but the potential benefits are enormous. Talk with your local BTCV officer or your local Council for Voluntary Service about how your group can develop work in this area. The Ponderosa Environmental Group has successfully reclaimed 15 acres of derelict open space. Initially, concern came from local residents about how this space was being used as a rubbish dump, but volunteer effort and BTCV advice has meant that the project has gone much further. As well as being cleared up, the site is now a self-sustaining amenity and wildlife area. Local schoolchildren have planted more than 1,400 trees and some of the site, once nothing more than an eyesore, is now community allotments.
Improving access to the natural environment. All content copyright © 1986-2008 BTCV Ltd. Registered charity No. 261009 |
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