IES supports new project Connecting Unheard Voices with Nature
Across the UK, many people care deeply about climate change, nature and their local environment. Yet too often, people from different backgrounds and communities are missing from the conversations that shape environmental research, policy and innovation.
This new national programme exists to change that.
Delivered by ALP Synergy and funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the programme is designed to bring unheard and under-represented voices into national conversations about nature, environmental challenges and future innovation, by working through trusted community groups. The IES is supporting this project through its Advisory Group.
The project is looking to connect with communities across the UK and is looking to recruit community leaders to support project delivery.
What is the programme?
The programme connects people with nature and environmental challenges in ways that feel relevant and accessible. It starts with everyday experience rather than complex science - such as access to green space, local climate impacts, environmental justice, health and wellbeing. Activities are practical, inclusive and creative, helping participants explore how environmental change affects their lives and communities.
The programme includes two linked strands: Nature Secure, focusing on environmental challenges, and Nature Smart, exploring how innovation and technology can support nature and communities.
Who is it for?
The programme is open to community groups of all kinds. We are particularly keen to involve groups supporting people whose voices are often under-represented in environmental discussions. This may include, but is not limited to, groups shaped by ethnicity, disability, neurodiversity, socio-economic disadvantage, geography, age or lived experience.
How can your group take part?
Community groups are invited to deliver a short series of workshops with their own groups. Delivery is flexible and fits around your existing work and no specialist environmental knowledge is required. We provide ready-to-use workshop packs, training and national webinars, ongoing support, and opportunities for participants’ ideas to feed into national conversations and a final report.
Register your community group.
Header image credit: (c) Surachetsh - Adobe Stock
