Selling Action for Insects
Published: 16 October 2020
Insects are a critical part of our ecosystems but today 41% of insect species face extinction in England. UK butterfly populations are down more than 50% since 1976 and we have lost 97% of our wildflower meadows since the 1930s.
More and better-quality wild spaces for insects will significantly contribute to our biodiversity - the full range of life found in a geographical area that includes visible life such as vegetation and animals, through to the invertebrates in the soil, mosses, fungi, and even life we can't see. Despite the serious decline insects can recover and action at a local level can be key to reversing this. Many parish and borough councils are already acting and managing open spaces in a way that helps to bring back insects - but not all are sure what they can do. Action for Insects offers a way forward.
Where do we fit in?
Communities that work together with a strong focus, use collective resources and have a plan can help reverse insect declines in local areas. Kent Wildlife Trust (KWT) is actively promoting and supporting the national Wildlife Trust campaign Action for Insects and has invited Selling Parish Council to contribute. Swale Borough Council's Biodiversity Action Plan is intended to provide a sound basis for local action to conserve, protect and enhance the biodiversity of the Borough. We are now working in partnership with Kent Wildlife Trust and Swale Borough Council to develop defined areas as havens for insects and wildlife close to roads and footpaths across the village. The Parish Council is able to apply for KCC Cultivation Licences, which will enable us to take back control and protect those roadside verges and banks aross the village we all want to turn into havens for wildlife.
Next steps
The online Parish Council meeting on Thursday 15 October at 6.00 pm by Zoom will have discussion with Kent Wildlife Trust and Swale Borough Councillors on how we can all turn our public green spaces and our own gardens into a haven of wild flowers and places in which insects can flourish and love. All are welcome. We publish the joining instructions for our online meetings via Zoom on the Agenda, which you can find on our Meetings page
How will your Free Action for Insects guide help you to make a difference?
Packed full of easy to follow advice and tips. The Action for Insects guide will help you to:
- Create a wildlife and insect-friendly garden
- Plan your garden and choose the right plants
- Stop using harmful chemicals inside your home and in your garden
- Make lifestyle changes that will benefit insects
Top Tips from Kent Wildlife Trust
- Wherever possible, plant native species that are locally sourced or grown and try to create and connect a variety of habitats – the right ones for where we live.
- If creating a meadow or tree planting, try to use UK-sourced seeds and plants wherever possible. Imported seeds, plants and animals can accidentally bring diseases into the country.
- Try to blend habitats in the community together rather than creating sharp boundaries between them. These blended edges are vital for many species.
- Think about ‘structural diversity’ when creating, enhancing or connecting habitat. In most habitats, a mix of foliage heights is best for wildlife