Thursday 7 March 2013

Launching ‘Link 2 Nature’


Link 2 Nature, the recently formed Local Nature Partnership in Wiltshire and Swindon launched on Wednesday 6th March at Laverton Hall in Westbury.  The Launch was well attended by a wide diversity of people and supported by a number of senior figures from a range of sectors.  
Dr Tom Tew,


Dr Tom Tew, Chief Executive of the Environment Bank gave the key note presentation and discussed many of the challenges that we face due to the loss of biodiversity and a more rapidly changing climate.  Leader of Swindon Borough Council, Rod Bluh and Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member, Toby Sturgis also gave short presentations confirming their support.  The Corporate Director of Public Health and Public Protection in Wiltshire, Maggie Rae, talked about the positive impact of nature on health and wellbeing.  To conclude the talks, Dr Mark Robins of the RSPB spoke about the importance of giving the environment a voice and how all sectors, such as health, business and the community, can benefit from working in partnership.


The Launch took place at the first Annual Forum of Link 2 Nature, partners were invited to identify the shared challenges facing the natural environment and prioritise the greatest risks ahead.  The feedback that was collected is being used to inform and shape Link 2 Nature’s Strategic Plan and will help to guide a positive partnership approach to tackling these wider issues.


The Government first introduced the concept of Local Nature Partnerships in 2011, and Link 2 Nature was officially recognised by Government in September 2012.  One of the main purposes of this partnership is to coordinate a new approach, helping partners from a wide range of sectors come together more effectively to protect and restore our local environment.  Link 2 Nature has recently appointed a new strategic board of senior leaders to champion the environment at a local level and is made up of representatives from a wide range of sectors. 
To find out more about Link 2 Nature and how you can get involved please visit
Thanks
Zoe
(Link 2 Nature Coordinator)

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