Spending time in nature is good for our mental and physical wellbeing. It is possible to create societal change via schools by funding regular nature experiences for all children. This would help the children recover from lockdown and set them up to learn. Experiencing nature creates more pro-environmental individuals, prepared to care for and respect their local areas. There would be a ripple effect into the community as families invest in their local biodiversity and take decisions informed by the UN Sustainability Development goals. Regular time in nature increases physical activity levels and fosters healthy behaviour patterns saving the NHS money in the future. Achieving Net Zero will need the UK population to make informed decisions. This generation of children will be those individuals who will make decisions to go into ‘green’ industries to support our green economy. Regular nature experiences through a Nature Premium will give the next generation the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve Net Zero.
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