Bioregionalism
Bioregionalism is a concept and philosophy that emphasizes living in harmony with the natural characteristics of a specific geographic area, or bioregion. Put simply, Bioregionalism is about:
- Understanding Your Place: Bioregionalism encourages people to learn about the natural features, climate, plants, animals, and ecosystems of the area where they live.
- Sustainable Living: It promotes living in ways that are sustainable and suited to the local environment. This means using resources wisely, supporting local economies, and minimizing harm to the ecosystem.
- Local Culture and Community: Bioregionalism values local traditions, cultures, and community practices that have developed in harmony with the environment over time.
- Environmental Stewardship: It advocates for active participation in protecting and restoring the natural environment of your bioregion, recognizing that a healthy environment supports a healthy community.
In essence, bioregionalism is about understanding, respecting, and living sustainably within the natural limits of your local environment.
Exploring the English Lowland Beech Woodlands Ecoregion - South East Britain and the South Coast
The English Lowlands Beech Forests is a terrestrial ecoregion in the United Kingdom, as defined by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the European Environment Agency (EEA) The English Lowlands ecoregion encompass woods, downs, rivers, coasts and marshes stretching across the south from the Bristol Channel in the west to Margate in the east, and from the Isle of Wight Biosphere in the south to the Cotswolds and North Wessex Downs in the north.
The English Lowlands Beech Forests ecoregion hosts ancient royal woodlands, the emblematic white cliffs of Dover, and a “Jurassic Coast” rich with fossil ammonites and ichthyosaurs. Springtime beechwoods are carpeted with bluebells, and red deer stalk glades of oak and bracken. Birds such as the turtle dove, yellowhammer, northern lapwing, and barn owl rely on the large area of agricultural land in the ecoregion, and Eurasian otters and beavers have made a comeback to the rivers.
The English lowland forest ecoregion is considered at high risk, with a critical/endangered conservation status accorded it by the WWF. However recent efforts are being made to restore and rewild the Ecoregion. European Bison, Iron Age Pigs and Exmoor Ponies have been released in the Blean in Kent as part of the Wilder Blean Initiative and the Knepp Rewilding Project has become internationally famous for its rewilding efforts in Sussex.
Our Community Projects
Great Stour River Charter
Great Stour River Charter
Great Stour River Charter
Bioregion Kent seeks to develop a River Charter for the Great Stour. Working together with nature conservation bodies, councils, and the Environment Agency, the River Charter will give citizens and their communities a new role as stewards whose voices are heard.
Blean Community Forest
Great Stour River Charter
Great Stour River Charter
There are 15 Community Forests in England, which are afforestation-based regeneration projects which aim to bring trees and people together to create healthy, inspiring, and resilient places for both communities and nature. We want to replicate this in The Blean.
Canterbury Eco City
Great Stour River Charter
Canterbury Eco City
The Canterbury Eco City project seeks to create a vision for Canterbury 2050 and put in place initiatives to transform the city into an exemplar of the green city movement.
Bioregion Kent
Garden of England - Ancient Rivers, Woods and Downs
Nestled in the southeast of this ecoregion, Kent boasts diverse landscapes that encompass key areas such as the Great Stour Valley, The Blean, The North Downs, and The Weald. Each of these landscapes offers unique ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance, providing vital habitats for wildlife and enriching our local heritage.
Humans and our predecessors have been present in Kent since over 500,000 years ago. Over this time period mankind has had a major impact on the habitats and species of Kent and the English Lowlands. However, the hills, coasts and rivers remain. The soils, geology, landscape and biological diversity has evolved over time and supports a rich and complex mosaic of habitats, ecological niches, landscapes and places that we today inhabit. This natural heritage is also resplendent with our cultural heritage, from neolithic stones, celtic hill forts, roman ruins, ancient cathedrals, oast houses, and windmills. This tapestry of mankind and nature is worth conserving, restoring and celebrating.
Ancient Woodlands and Commons - The Blean
Ancient Woodlands: Ancient woodlands are forests that have existed for centuries, often dating back to at least 1600 AD in England. These venerable woodlands are rich in biodiversity, featuring a diverse array of plant species, fungi, and wildlife that have thrived over long periods of ecological stability. Ancient woods are treasured for their ecological importance, historical value, and the serene beauty they offer to visitors.
The Blean Complex in Kent: The Blean Complex is one of the largest and most significant areas of ancient woodland in England, located in Kent. Covering over 11 square miles, this expanse is a mosaic of ancient woods, heathlands, and grasslands, teeming with wildlife. The Blean is home to rare species such as the nightjar and heath fritillary butterfly. With its rich biodiversity, network of walking trails, and peaceful ambiance, the Blean Complex is a vital and cherished natural area for both conservation and recreation.
Common Land
Common land refers to land where local people, known as commoners, have certain traditional rights, such as grazing livestock, collecting firewood, or foraging. In the context of the Blean Complex in Kent, common land plays a crucial role in both the ecosystem and the local community.
The Blean includes areas of common land that have been used for centuries. These lands are important for several reasons:
- Biodiversity: The traditional practices of grazing and foraging help maintain the diverse habitats within the Blean, supporting a wide range of plant and animal species.
- Cultural Heritage: The rights and practices associated with common land are part of the region’s cultural heritage, reflecting a historical way of life and community management of resources.
- Public Access: Common land is often accessible to the public, providing valuable green space for recreation and nature appreciation. Visitors to the Blean can enjoy walking, birdwatching, and experiencing the natural beauty of this ancient woodland.
- Conservation: Properly managed common land, such as coppicing can contribute to conservation efforts, preserving important habitats and species. In the Blean, traditional land use practices help maintain the health and diversity of the woodland ecosystem.
Overall, the common land within the Blean Complex is a vital component of this ancient woodland, contributing to its ecological richness, cultural significance, and recreational value
Chalk Downs - The North & South Downs
The North Downs and South Downs are iconic chalk hill ranges in southeastern England, renowned for their stunning landscapes and natural beauty.
North Downs: Stretching from Farnham in Surrey to the White Cliffs of Dover, the North Downs feature rolling chalk hills, verdant valleys, and ancient woodlands. The area is celebrated for its scenic walking trails, including parts of the Pilgrims' Way, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
South Downs: Extending from Winchester to Eastbourne, the South Downs are characterized by their smooth, grassy slopes, dramatic cliffs, and open heathlands. This region is home to the South Downs National Park, providing a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts, with extensive hiking, cycling, and horse-riding opportunities.
Both the North and South Downs are cherished for their unique chalk landscapes, rich history, and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Chalk Streams & Rivers - The Great Stour Valley
Nestled in the heart of Kent, the Great Stour Valley is enchanted with its picturesque landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Chalk Streams and Rivers: Chalk streams and rivers are unique freshwater ecosystems found primarily in southern England. These clear, mineral-rich waters emerge from chalk aquifers, providing a steady flow and a stable environment for diverse wildlife. Renowned for their pristine quality, chalk streams support a variety of plants, invertebrates, and fish, including the iconic brown trout. Their cool, alkaline waters are vital for biodiversity and offer tranquil settings for recreation and conservation efforts.
Kentish Great Stour Valley: The Kentish Great Stour Valley is a picturesque region in Kent, defined by the meandering Great Stour River. This fertile valley boasts a mix of lush meadows, wetlands, and woodlands, creating a vibrant habitat for wildlife and a scenic landscape for visitors. The Great Stour River, winding through historic towns and charming villages, enriches the region with opportunities for boating, fishing, and nature walks. The valley is a treasured part of Kent’s natural heritage, offering both ecological significance and serene beauty
The Weald - High Weald and Low Weald of Kent
The High Weald and Low Weald are two distinct regions in southeastern England, each with its own unique characteristics and significance.
The High Weald is characterized by its undulating landscape of sandstone ridges, rolling hills, and deep valleys. This area is renowned for its ancient woodlands, heathlands, and meadows, which support a rich diversity of plant and animal life. The High Weald is steeped in cultural heritage, featuring medieval villages, historic estates, and traditional farming practices that have shaped the landscape over centuries. Conservation efforts in the High Weald focus on preserving its unique ecology and maintaining its historic rural character.
In contrast, the Low Weald is characterized by its flatter, more gently rolling terrain and lower-lying geography. This region is primarily used for agriculture, including arable farming and pasture, due to its fertile soils. The Low Weald landscape comprises a mix of woodland, farmland, and wetlands, providing habitats for various wildlife species. It is also known for its cultural heritage, with notable manor houses, country estates, and picturesque market towns dotting the countryside. Conservation efforts in the Low Weald aim to protect its agricultural landscapes and important wetland habitats.
Both the High Weald and Low Weald are valued for their natural beauty, biodiversity, and historical significance, making them important areas for conservation and sustainable land management in England.
Free Events & Activities
Green Book Club
Nature Film & Photography Club
Nature Film & Photography Club
Join our Green Book Club.
Are you passionate about the environment and eager to dive deep into the philosophies that shape our understanding of nature? Our new Green Book Club could be the perfect place for you. Together, we'll explore thought-provoking books on environmental philosophy, deep ecology, bioregionalism, and nature conservatio
Join our Green Book Club.
Are you passionate about the environment and eager to dive deep into the philosophies that shape our understanding of nature? Our new Green Book Club could be the perfect place for you. Together, we'll explore thought-provoking books on environmental philosophy, deep ecology, bioregionalism, and nature conservation. Engage in enriching discussions, connect with like-minded individuals, and be inspired to make a positive impact on our planet. Let’s read, reflect, and act for a greener future. Join us and be part of the change.
Nature Film & Photography Club
Nature Film & Photography Club
Nature Film & Photography Club
Join our Green Film and Photography Club.
Are you captivated by the beauty of nature and passionate about the environment? Our Nature Film and Photography Club is the perfect community for you! Experience breathtaking nature films at the cinema and engage in insightful discussions about the wonders of our natural world. Additionally, hone
Join our Green Film and Photography Club.
Are you captivated by the beauty of nature and passionate about the environment? Our Nature Film and Photography Club is the perfect community for you! Experience breathtaking nature films at the cinema and engage in insightful discussions about the wonders of our natural world. Additionally, hone your photography skills through hands-on sessions, capturing the stunning landscapes and wildlife around us. Connect with fellow nature enthusiasts, share your work, and be inspired to see the world through a new lens.
Walks, Talks & Fieldtrips
Nature Film & Photography Club
Walks, Talks & Fieldtrips
Take part in nature walks talks and trips.
Discover the beauty and wonders of the ecoregions of Kent and the South East with our exciting series of nature walks, engaging talks, immersive field trips, and insightful site visits. Whether you're a seasoned nature enthusiast or just starting your journey, our diverse activities offer somethi
Take part in nature walks talks and trips.
Discover the beauty and wonders of the ecoregions of Kent and the South East with our exciting series of nature walks, engaging talks, immersive field trips, and insightful site visits. Whether you're a seasoned nature enthusiast or just starting your journey, our diverse activities offer something for everyone. Connect with experts, learn about local ecosystems, and experience nature firsthand. Sign up now to stay informed about our upcoming events and be part of a community dedicated to exploring and preserving our environment.