One Planet News: Give the gift of nature
Annette J Beveridge: Think long termism rather than disposable for Christmas
By Annette J Beveridge
People tune into nature at different stages of life. I have seen the youngest of children marvel at the wonders of a butterfly and know some, newly retired people, who are considering turning their gardens into a haven for wildlife. The beauty of nature is that it can instil a sense of wonder, awe and appreciation in most whether young or old, and that is a gift that continues to grow.
In this state of nature and climate crisis and with Christmas only days away, perhaps we can gently nudge others to appreciate the wonders of birds and animals at this time of giving.
The gift of learning
The good news is that we don’t have to know much about nature to enjoy it. My love of nature was accelerated at junior school while doing a school project. It started me off on a lifetime of learning about various species. I have long believed that the more we learn about nature, the greater our fascination and need to protect it.
Time can be one of the greatest gifts we can give another person. Consider a family day out at a wildlife park. Hours of fun and togetherness. Although this can be costly, so why not start doing some family nature walks?
Make learning about nature fun. Do a quiz with a small prize - an especially good idea when trying to tear children away from computer games for a while. Family time together is priceless.
There are also conservation projects that would love some help. To find the right project, go to naturevolunteers.co.uk
So what is the gift of nature?
As it is the time of year when we consider gifting others, make these final days in the countdown to Christmas really count.
We can give friends and family chocolates or that funny gift, but realistically, how long do these last? How about giving a plant that will grow into something beautiful and be a daily reminder of your special connection for the years to come?
Read more: Hippos - large, dangerous but neglected
This year, I am giving my best friend a rose plant for Christmas. She adores roses so it will, in time, add an extra bit of joy to her life. As she is involved in the editing process of our newsletters, don’t worry, I haven’t given the game away. She already knows about it.
Roses are also invaluable for insect life as a heady scent can attract insects from far and wide. Plus, with such a long flowering period, it can be beneficial for hoverflies and bees. Single-flower species are preferable if you are giving with nature in mind.
There are many gifts for the garden that can bring a smile to the faces of loved ones. Buy bird feeders and seeds, or select ladybird or bee hotels. These are not expensive. Even better, make your own.
Purchase a bird bath or a bird table for a loved one, or, if you feel like putting in some hard work, see if they would like a small pond created and get out there and dig.
Read more: Golden eagles in England?
If you are considering buying some eco-friendly clothes for loved ones this year, take a look at our shop and this will support us.
Here’s the link: ECOHIVE NATURE
If you have a garden, save a special corner for children and give a gift of seed balls. They can watch those pollinator-loving plants grow and witness all the life they bring to the garden. No garden? Don’t worry, you can also grow many different types of plants in pots on a window box, balcony or indoor windowsill.
There are so many books on nature and gardening too and there is bound to be a suitable book for a family member or friend.
Christmas wrapping
Christmas can be a time of extreme waste so think about this when giving gifts. Purchase recycled wrapping paper and avoid giving unnecessary cards this year. Put presents in gift bags as these can be reused.
Joke presents will often soon find a way into landfill once Christmas is over so there may be better options if you also want to do something good for the planet.
It is best to support ‘long-termism’ rather than opt for easily-disposable.
Read more: Protect garden birds this winter
Why nature matters
When we destroy nature, we destroy our own happiness and well-being. Think about losing a part of a jigsaw, the outcome isn’t the same. This is how nature works too. Each species plays an important role and shapes the outcome.
From the smallest insect to the largest animal, there is an important role to play. Nature isn’t always beautiful or kind, but it is real and we must understand its intricacies if we want to preserve something so important that will impact human survival if we don't take action. In reality, we cannot thrive if nature is not in balance.
Of course, if you want a gift that really keeps on giving, why not subscribe to One Planet News or sign up for our Wild Insights digital magazine? Have a year of nature delivered to you or to that special person in your life.
