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This 30-minute Podcast takes you on a walk around Ludwell Valley Park, Exeter, along with 30 members of the local community. During this walk we discuss the implementation of the Biodiversity Net Gain legislation and whether it goes far enough to protect biodiversity, at the same time as enabling the development of new housing. We also discuss the benefits to humans from accessing nature, and whether social justice has a role to play in the delivery of BNG.
Audio was recorded during a ‘Walkie Talkie’ community event organised in collaboration with Agile Rabbit. The walk was led by Dr Diana Tingley, of Exeter University, and features commentary from community members, as well interviews with experts.
During the Podcast, the key findings of the Esmee Fairbairn-funded research ‘Who should benefit from environmental policies? Social preferences and nonmarket values for the distribution of environmental improvements are set out and used to frame the discussion.
Ludwell Valley Park, is one of six Exeter Valley Parks managed by Devon Wildlife Trust. It is located on the very edge of the busy city of Exeter, UK and the area is surrounded by new housing development. In addition to providing free access for people for recreation, the Ludwell Valley Park is a wildlife haven. Harvest mice nest in the fields, whitethroats and blackcaps can be found in the hedgerows, and orange-tip and painted lady butterflies feed on the wildflowers.
The Walkie Talkie Event and Podcast were produced in collaboration with Agile Rabbit, a charity driven by strong values of curiosity, creativity, openness, balance, inclusivity, and engagement. Their events are inclusive and accessible, and provide challenge to audiences.