Conservation
We like to share information relevant to Therfield Heath's types of environment. We do not have any relationship with the authors or organisations who own the articles below.
Please note, "foraging" is not allowed. Taking any plantlife, fresh or decaying, is forbidden by the bye laws that protect the Heath. The Heath is managed only where necessary otherwise it is left in its natural state. The full bye laws can be found on Therfield Heath website www.therfieldheath.org.uk.
Please note, "foraging" is not allowed. Taking any plantlife, fresh or decaying, is forbidden by the bye laws that protect the Heath. The Heath is managed only where necessary otherwise it is left in its natural state. The full bye laws can be found on Therfield Heath website www.therfieldheath.org.uk.
Articles
www.plantlife.co.uk
Article: Why species-rich grasslands matter in the fight against climate change
www.manchester.ac.uk
Article: could this method save our iconic chalk grassland?
https://sdgs.un.org
Article: UN Sustainable Development Goals page
Article: Why species-rich grasslands matter in the fight against climate change
www.manchester.ac.uk
Article: could this method save our iconic chalk grassland?
https://sdgs.un.org
Article: UN Sustainable Development Goals page
Climate change
Therfield Heath and Greens are important in the fight against climate change. The RSPB and WWF UK have recently published a report that shows the immense importance of permanent grasslands and rough pasture for carbon storage. It recommends the protection and restoration of species rich grasslands, lowland heath, and open habitats, such as Therfield Heath, as a priority. Britain has lost 80% of its chalk grassland since the second World War due to intensive farming, tourism and housing. Chalk grassland acts an important carbon store which helps mitigate against the effects of climate change.
Up to 40 plant species - including orchids and wildflowers – grow in a square meter of typical Chalk grassland, attracting insects, rare butterflies and birds. Therfield Heath is a good example and known for its rare Pasque flowers and Chalk Hill Blue butterfly.
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
Most of Therfield Heath has been designed SSSI since 1947. A Site of Special Scientific Interest is a formal conservation designation. Usually it describes and area that is of particular interest to science due to the rare flora and fauna it contains – or even important geological or physical features that may lie in its boundaries. This status means owners must manage the Site appropriately to conserve its Special features. The english authority which determines SSSI status is Natural England. An SSSI can give higher protection than other designations, e.g. Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB).
Sustainable Development Goals
Therfield Heath meets 5 of the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) just by existing as it is. This is why it is so important to conserve the Heath.
In 2015 the United Nations set an agenda for 2030 of Sustainable Development Goals providing a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet.
Therfield Heath and Greens are important in the fight against climate change. The RSPB and WWF UK have recently published a report that shows the immense importance of permanent grasslands and rough pasture for carbon storage. It recommends the protection and restoration of species rich grasslands, lowland heath, and open habitats, such as Therfield Heath, as a priority. Britain has lost 80% of its chalk grassland since the second World War due to intensive farming, tourism and housing. Chalk grassland acts an important carbon store which helps mitigate against the effects of climate change.
Up to 40 plant species - including orchids and wildflowers – grow in a square meter of typical Chalk grassland, attracting insects, rare butterflies and birds. Therfield Heath is a good example and known for its rare Pasque flowers and Chalk Hill Blue butterfly.
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
Most of Therfield Heath has been designed SSSI since 1947. A Site of Special Scientific Interest is a formal conservation designation. Usually it describes and area that is of particular interest to science due to the rare flora and fauna it contains – or even important geological or physical features that may lie in its boundaries. This status means owners must manage the Site appropriately to conserve its Special features. The english authority which determines SSSI status is Natural England. An SSSI can give higher protection than other designations, e.g. Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB).
Sustainable Development Goals
Therfield Heath meets 5 of the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) just by existing as it is. This is why it is so important to conserve the Heath.
In 2015 the United Nations set an agenda for 2030 of Sustainable Development Goals providing a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet.
Therfield heath and Greens meets 5 of the 17 sustainable development goals (SDG) set by the United Nations to transform our world
- Goal 1. No Poverty
- Goal 2. Zero Hunger
- Goal 3. Good Health and Wellbeing - The Heath and Greens provide open space, walks and sports facilities for good mental and physical health
- Goal 4. Quality Education
- Goal 5. Gender Equality
- Goal 6. Clean Water and Sanitation – Clean water pumped from underneath the Heath supplies Royston’s water.
- Goal 7. Affordable and Clean Energy
- Goal 8. Decent work and Economic Growth
- Goal 9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- Goal 10. Reduced Inequality
- Goal 11. Sustainable Cities and Communities - Therfield Heath and Greens provide space for community and social activities
- Goal 12. Responsible Consumption and Production
- Goal 13. Climate Action - Trees and grassland absorb and store carbon dioxide
- Goal 14. Life Below Water
- Goal 15. Life on Land - The Heath and Greens are a rich diverse habitat with some rare plants and insects
- Goal 16. Peace and Justice Strong Institutions
- Goal 17. Partnerships to achieve the Goal.
Royston Environmental Group
Royston Environmental Group exists to help build a more sustainable future for Royston and its surrounding villages. They aim to do this by:
Find out more at www.roystonenvironmentalgroup.org.uk
- Improving the environment in the Royston area and globally.
- Bringing together and fostering understanding among the residents of Royston and area about environmental issues.
- Educating the residents of Royston about environmental issues and what they can do to help.
- Promoting positive action and mutual support among our members.
Find out more at www.roystonenvironmentalgroup.org.uk
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