In May 2019, the United Nations reported that nature is declining globally at rates unprecedented in human history with up to 1 million of the Earth’s estimated 8 million species at risk of extinction, many of them within decades. This should be a concern for us all as we and all other species depend on healthy ecosystems. In neglecting our environmental stewardship, we are eroding the very foundations of our economies, livelihoods, food security, health and quality of life.
At this years’ World Economic Forum held in Davos, Switzerland, Sir David Attenborough expressed his concern over the urgent environmental challenges we face:
“We have to recognise that every breath of air we take, every mouthful of food we take comes from the natural world. And that if we damage the natural world, we damage ourselves. We have the power. We have the knowledge to actually live in harmony with nature.”
The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world with more than one in seven species facing extinction in our islands and more than half in decline. The governments of the UK all have national biodiversity strategies that target a reduction in this decline.
Golf courses make up approximately 1% of the total land area of the UK and can be a haven for wildlife. Many are already doing excellent work in giving nature a better chance to thrive.
At this years’ World Economic Forum held in Davos, Switzerland, Sir David Attenborough expressed his concern over the urgent environmental challenges we face:
“We have to recognise that every breath of air we take, every mouthful of food we take comes from the natural world. And that if we damage the natural world, we damage ourselves. We have the power. We have the knowledge to actually live in harmony with nature.”
The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world with more than one in seven species facing extinction in our islands and more than half in decline. The governments of the UK all have national biodiversity strategies that target a reduction in this decline.
Golf courses make up approximately 1% of the total land area of the UK and can be a haven for wildlife. Many are already doing excellent work in giving nature a better chance to thrive.
However, although golf can contribute towards the conservation of wildlife, it can have a far greater impact if it works with others to create local networks for nature.
Collaboration with local landowners, including other golf facilities, local authorities, farmers and other business sectors, can develop more expansive corridors connecting urban and rural landscapes through which populations of wildlife can connect and spread.
Playing our sport in natural surroundings is one of the joys of golf. Golfing landscapes and the wildlife they protect greatly enhance the playing experience. They create places where we can get away from the pressures of everyday living. In an age where mental health issues are in the spotlight, a few hours on the golf course can be a great tonic for our wellbeing.
Enjoy every moment that you spend on the Links, the pars, the birdies and with good playing on your part and good conservation on ours, perhaps one day, an eagle.
