To mark the special birthday, The Wildlife Trusts have published a review of the history, highlights and impact of the challenge. The ’30 Days Wild Effect: Ten years of noticing nature and changing lives’ explores how people’s lives have been enhanced by the challenge, while underlining the importance of improving our relationship with nature. People in the UK have one of the lowest levels of nature connection in Europe, while the UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries on the planet.
Research by the University of Derby revealed that 30 Days Wild improves nature connectedness and inspires pro-nature behaviour. This is defined by actions that directly benefit wildlife, such as planting pollinator-friendly plants, volunteering with nature organisations or getting involved in a community growing project.
The Wildlife Trusts want to inspire a wave of local action to nurture nature this June, at home, in the workplace and in communities. Suggested actions include:
- Creating a wild patch or mini meadow with native plants
- Doing a litter pick or beach clean
- Reducing food waste by creating compost at home
Miles Richardson is Professor of Human Factors and Nature Connectedness at the University of Derby and led five years of research into the impacts of 30 Days Wild. He says: “Our research consistently found that people who took part in 30 Days Wild benefitted from increased happiness, health and nature connection. The research also showed that participation inspired pro-nature behaviours. Reversing nature loss and stabilising the climate requires action on every level, from local efforts to international cooperation. Central to this is improving individual and societal relationships with nature. Developing deeper and stronger bonds with nature provides a positive vision of a future where both people and nature can thrive.”
Dermot O’Leary, TV presenter, author of Wings of Glory and 30 Days Wild champion, says:
“I’m a huge bird nerd – whether it’s watching the bluetits on my bird feeder, or witnessing the magic of peregrine falcons hunting, I am fascinated by our incredible UK wildlife. This June, join me and The Wildlife Trusts in the 30 Days Wild challenge. Try doing one thing ‘wild’ every day for the whole month and see how great it makes you feel! I just know that this would be top of the commands from the Royal Bird Force!”
Liz Bonnin, TV presenter and President of The Wildlife Trusts, says, “30 Days Wild is a brilliant initiative that has resulted in millions of people connecting with and enjoying nature. Since its inception 10 years ago, it has grown tremendously and become a staple of calendars for schoolchildren and adults alike. Studies have shown that 30 Days Wild benefits health and happiness, and also motivates people to do more to help nature and wildlife. I wholeheartedly invite you, no matter where you live in the UK and beyond, to join us in celebrating a decade of going wild this June, so that we can make this our most successful year yet.”
Dr Amir Khan, NHS doctor and Vice-President of The Wildlife Trusts, says: “I’ve heard stories about 30 Days Wild instilling a sense of purpose and expanding people’s horizons. It has helped families and neighbours to develop closer bonds, and broken barriers that prevent people from enjoying the natural world. It has shown that focusing on nature can open doors and provide opportunities that otherwise may never happen.”
30 Days Wild has grown from 12,000 participants in its first year, to over half a million consecutively for the last three years. The 30 Days Wild Effect reveals that people’s favourite activities over the last 10 years included listening to birds and planting wildflowers.
New to the challenge this year are special 30 Days Wild packs for His Majesty’s Prisons. Evidence shows that prisoner exposure to nature improves mental and physical health. There are also free packs for individuals, schools, families and businesses. Last year, the challenge was backed by the NHS, reflecting the health and wellbeing benefits of taking part.
Free activity packs provide fun ideas for ways to connect with and help nature, no matter where you live. Register at wildlifetrusts.org/30dayswild
30 Days Wild is supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, with funds awarded to The Wildlife Trusts through Postcode Planet Trust.
Read The 30 Days Wild Effect: Ten years of noticing nature and changing lives here.
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