John Cobham
New Year's resolutions can come in all forms and sizes; we think the best ones to choose are things that can be realistically achieved. And there are lots of resolutions that can make a difference to the natural world without having to make big lifestyle changes.
With increasing pressure on the environment and wildlife, if we all try doing something a little different in 2024, together we can make a really big difference. Here are some of our top ideas for how you can help wildlife this year.
Christmas tree planting on the Fylde Sand Dunes ©Brian Jones
Whatever your skills or background, and however much time you can give, volunteering for your local Wildlife Trust is a wonderful way to make a practical difference to the natural world around you.
Our annual Christmas tree planting days on the Fylde Coast are a great way to blow away the festive cobwebs, and get your hands dirty – or should we say, sandy! This year our tree planting days will take place on 5 and 6 February. On these days you can help us bury recycled Christmas trees, contributing to the preservation and expansion of our sand dunes which act as precious habitats and sea defences.
Additionally, if you're unable to take part in the tree planting days, you're still able to make a difference by donating your old Christmas tree for us to plant. Find out how to donate your tree, or sign up to take part in our tree planting days, here.
Matthew Pennington
New year's resolutions are often focused around getting outdoors, being active and feeling the wellbeing benefits of movement. Perhaps this is the year for you to take on a fitness resolution whilst ticking something off your bucket list? Are you ready to take on a challenging run like a 10k? How about a sponsored wild swim? Raising money for wildlife is a brilliant way to give back to the natural world and give yourself an extra dose of motivation to take on your chosen challenge!
Equally, your fundraising activities don't have to involve getting active; perhaps there's a new skill you've always wanted to learn, or you'd like to put your crafting or baking talents towards a good cause? Whatever you choose to do, every penny raised will go towards helping your local wildlife. Be creative, have fun and use your talents to help us! Take a look at our fundraising pack here for plenty more ideas.
Lucy Coxhead
Becoming a member is one of the best ways to contribute towards the protection of your local wildlife. We truly rely on the support of our members to help us maintain our precious nature reserves, undertake important habitat restoration work, support threatened species, educate the next generation about the importance of nature, and so much more!
In fact, until the end of January, you're able to join the Lancashire Wildlife Trust as a member for half price! That's only £1.50 per month, or £18 a year – a wonderful way to kick off your new year by doing something great for wildlife. Be part of something spectacular – join as a member here.
Your garden can be a lifeline for wildlife, particularly during the winter months. Your resolution could simply be to give nature a helping hand this year by providing food and shelter for wildlife. From bird feeders to bug hotels, there’s an option to suit every space and pocket – every window box or plant pot can make a difference.
In fact, almost 90 per cent of UK households have a garden, adding up to 20 million gardens with a surface area bigger than all 2,300 Wildlife Trust nature reserves combined – imagine if every one of those gardens was made just a little more welcoming for nature! Download our free My Wild Garden guide for tips on how to get started - and, if your garden meets our wild garden criteria, you can celebrate with your very own My Wild Garden award!
Adam Jones
Last November, we launched our biggest ever appeal, Step up for Wildlife. This is a year-long appeal, and one of our own goals for 2024 is to hit our ambitious £300,000 target.
We know it's not always possible to make regular charitable contributions with today's cost of living – but if you're able to make a one-off donation this year, know that this is still an amazing thing to do! Every donation towards our appeal, no matter how big or small, will help us ramp up the impact of our work and achieve some special things across our region. Learn more about our plans for the funds from this appeal here.
Another lovely way to do some good this year is to make a gift donation on behalf of someone, whether this is to celebrate a special occasion or remember someone who loved wildlife. You can learn more about gift donations here.
With a General Election on the horizon this year, and the environment in a worrying state of decline, it's more important than ever for us all to make our voices heard and let our politicians know that we need them to stand up for our natural world. We have put together five key priorities for our next government which we think are the most important areas to be addressed – maybe your resolution could be to get in touch with your elected officials to ask them what they're doing for wildlife and the environment in your local area? Read our advice for how to lobby your MP here.
Bluebell wood by Andrew Mason
Imagine giving a gift that truly lasts for generations and contributes to a wilder future for both people and wildlife in our region. Leaving a legacy to your local Wildlife Trust is one of the most meaningful and wonderful ways you can help protect your local wildlife and wild spaces, making a lasting difference for the future.
If you're interested in finding out more about gifts in wills, you can read more here.
Whether it's by raising your voice, giving your time, using your talents, making a kind donation or taking a few simple actions at home, there's so much you can do for wildlife this year. Make 2024 the year you make a difference for wildlife in Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside.
