Become a green champ for the county

PEOPLE have been encouraged to become biodiversity champions, as the county council’s environmental volunteering scheme branches out.

A call has gone out to Leicestershire residents to help spread the word about the county council’s green initiatives, such as the creation of wildflower verges to encourage wildlife, and the planting and restoration of local woodlands.

Leicestershire is one of the poorest counties for biodiversity and conservation value in the UK, as its Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) represent only two per cent of the land - compared to the national average of six per cent.

The authority aims to boost the county’s biodiversity and help nature’s road to recovery by recruiting volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds, as part of its Environment Action Volunteer scheme.

New recruits will not only be able to develop new skills along the way by completing specialist environmental modules funded by the county council, but also share knowledge with their local community. Giving just a few hours each month will make a huge difference and help the council with its woodland conservation, grassland restoration and monitoring of invasive and non-native species to tackle the decline of local wildlife.

Councillor Blake Pain, cabinet member for the environment and green agenda, said: “It’s clearer than ever before that people want to do more to protect the environment and make a real difference. Whether you are becoming more interested in environmental issues or a lifelong nature lover, there are plenty of ways you can get involved, from enhancing your knowledge to monitoring the flora and fauna near you.

“As COP 26 showed last year, urgent action is needed – so there’s no better time to sign up as a volunteer to make space for nature in Leicestershire.”

The council are also seeking master composters – volunteers who encourage people to recycle their kitchen food scraps and garden waste. Training is provided by environmental charity, Garden Organic, and volunteers can develop their interest in gardening while helping to reduce the amount of organic waste going to landfill.

The scheme is open to residents of Leicestershire and volunteers must be over 18.

Anyone who would like to apply or find out more can visit http:// www.lesswaste.org.uk/ volunteering/. Or contact the volunteer co-ordinator on 0116 305 7005 or email wasteprevention@ leics.gov.uk