Wilder Podcast

This episode was the culmination of a wonderful day with Alastair Driver, the Director of Rewilding Britain and a very wise man. Alastair talks with us about the history and vision of the charity, the challenges within the current government system (as well as the potential solutions) and some of the successes they’ve had in influencing policy. Alastair was also kind enough to share his reflections on our project and we describe our first step to ‘wilding’ our 80 acres. Finally, listen out for references to BBC’s The Archers, baby vomit and sad tidings about the spinach!Your HostsTom Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/Chloe Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-constable-24155821b/Our GuestAlastair Driver is an accomplished conservationist and environmental advocate known for his significant contributions to rewilding and habitat restoration in the United Kingdom. He serves as the Director of Rewilding Britain, a leading organisation dedicated to the promotion and implementation of rewilding principles across Britain's landscapes. Through his leadership, Rewilding Britain has been instrumental in raising awareness about the importance of rewilding and influencing policy and land management decisions that support rewilding efforts.With a background in environmental science and ecology, Alastair has spent his career at the forefront of conservation efforts. He is an Honorary Professor of Applied Environmental Management at the University of Exeter and was the National Conservation Manager for the Environment Agency (2002 - 2016), before his appointment as Director of Rewilding Britain in 2017.  His work has encompassed a wide range of initiatives, from habitat restoration and species conservation to promoting more sustainable land management practices.Grange Project Contact & Social MediaEmail: hello@grangeproject.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/grange.project/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/grangeprojectYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GrangeProjectLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/Listen out for:[00:00:20] Introduction to the episode.[00:01:35] Update on the Grange Project; first ‘wilding’ intervention on the land, visits from podcast listeners, neighbours sharing sustainably grown food and the less said about the spinach the better. [00:05:50] Introduction to Alastair Driver, our guest for this week and Director of Rewilding Britain[00:06:19] Alastair joins us and gives a quick summary of his background and his reflections on the Grange Project, he reckons we’re only 15/10 crazy.[00:11:40] We learn more about Rewilding Britain; when it was formed, the Rewilding Network, how the charity has developed and some of the influence it holds.[00:16:25] Alastair reflects on some of the challenges of our current system of government and how it’s failing to address the upcoming challenges associated with climate change and biodiversity loss, but equally the role Rewilding Britain has held in influencing policy shifts.[00:22:00] We discuss the need for a cross-party parliamentary agreement and co-ordinated policy change around food production, land use, energy and education.  [00:28:32] We talked about future of land use within the UK and the report that Rewilding Britain are currently preparing in response to the 30x30 target.   [00:32:08] Alasdair identifies what he’d want listeners to take from the conversation including rewilding gardens and the value of engaging with Rewilding Britain and rewilding sites across the country.[00:34:17] Chloe and Tom reflect on the importance of Rewilding Britain and the value of petitions.Keen for more:   Websites:https://www.rewildingbritain.org.uk Rewilding Britain aims to tackle the climate emergency and extinction crisis, reconnect people with the natural world and to help communities thrive through rewilding. They have a mission to achieve large-scale restoration of nature across Britain, through their Rewilding Network and in influencing Policy and Practice.Mentioned in this episode:Visit & Stay at the Grange ProjectWould you like to escape the trappings of the modern world and wake-up in the morning to one of the best views in South Wales, where only the birds are noisy? We have two beautiful and sustainably built ‘tiny homes’, carefully located in secluded locations across our 80 acre rewilding project.Visit Grange Project

In this episode, we are delighted to share that we have not one, but two fantastic guests. Firstly, we're joined by Benedict Macdonald, CEO of Restore, to share the announcement of our partnership, his reflections on the Grange Project and the exciting concept of ‘reflowering’. However, the episode's focal point is a really informative interview with Julia Hailes MBE, who emphasises the impact of individual consumer choice on driving change. We also discuss the concept of 'wilding' and how her 9 acre land holding has evolved from field to nature haven. We talk about management strategies for cultivating wildflower meadows, handling thistles, docks, and nettles, and managing grasslands. Finally, Julia introduces her 'Wilding Weekends' and offers some top tips for encouraging biodiversity in gardens.Your HostsTom Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/Chloe Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-constable-24155821b/Our GuestJulia Hailes MBE is a British environmentalist, author, and sustainable development consultant. She is known for her contributions to the field of sustainability and her advocacy for responsible business practices. Julia Hailes co-authored the influential book "The Green Consumer Guide" in 1988, which played a significant role in raising public awareness about environmentally friendly consumer choices.Throughout her career, Hailes has been actively involved in promoting sustainable development, social responsibility, and ethical business practices. She has advised numerous companies, organisations, and governments on sustainability strategies, helping them integrate environmental and social considerations into their operations. Julia has recently transformed her 9 acre land holding from a sheep-eaten field into a wildlife haven.Grange Project Contact & Social MediaEmail: hello@grangeproject.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/grange.project/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/grangeprojectYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GrangeProjectLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/Listen out for:[00:00:00] Introduction to the episode.[00:01:51] Tom shares the big announcement around our partnership with the ecology consultancy, Restore. We meet Benedict Macdonald (CEO of Restore) and chat through his hopes for Restore. [00:06:14] Benedict shares his reflections on the Grange Project and the next steps for our work together; reflowering![00:12:58] We begin the interview with our guest, Julia Hailes, who talks about the power of individual choice in making a difference. Specifically, we talk about peat and how you can act as a campaigning citizen when making consumer choices. [00:20:37] Julia talks about the principle of ‘wilding’ and an overview of her 9 acres and how the vision developed.[00:27:51] We discuss the British culture and the challenge we have of allowing ‘mess’ into our gardens.[00:30:44] Julia shares the most dramatic changes she’s seen on her land, including the number of insects that can now be found following the changes they’ve made.[00:35:04] We talk about the creation of a wildflower meadow and management strategies for thistles, docks and nettles, which could apply to any size of garden.[00:40:02] We go on to discuss different strategies for managing grasslands.[00:41:50] Julia introduces us to her ‘Wilding Weekends’ and shares some practical tips about what might encourage biodiversity within a garden context.[00:50:32] Chloe and Tom reflect on the interview and the importance of not getting caught up with semantics and being willing to experiment.Keen for more:   Websiteshttps://juliahailes.com Julia’s website is a treasure trove of resources. Specifically, it contains information about her background, the activities she engages in to promote change and her fantastic blog, which contains articles on everything from wilding to family planning to net zero (as well as lots of idea to find out more about all of these topics).https://beehappyplants.co.uk/ Bee Happy Plants & Seeds is a propagation nursery specialist in plants for pollinators, not-for-profit UK company. All the trees, shrubs and other species plants are grown 100% from seed, here at their UK nursery, organically and with biosecurity at the forefront.Blog Articleshttps://juliahailes.com/peat-in-compost-is-environmental-vandalism-mar21/ The blog discusses the pressing issue of peat usage in gardening and its detrimental environmental impacts.Books‘The Life Cycle’ by Kate Rawles. Pedalling hard for thirteen months, eco adventurer Kate Rawles cycled the length of the Andes on an eccentric bicycle she built herself. The Life Cycle charts her mission to find out why biodiversity is so important, what's happening to it, and what can be done to protect it.https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-life-cycle-8-000-miles-in-the-andes-by-bamboo-bike-kate-rawles/7400363?ean=9781785787874‘Silent Earth: Averting the Insect Apocalypse’ by Dave Goulson. Insects are essential for life as we know it - without them, our world would look vastly different. Drawing on the latest ground-breaking research and a lifetime's study, Dave Goulson reveals the long decline of insect populations that has taken place in recent decades and its potential consequences. https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/silent-earth-the-sunday-times-bestseller-dave-goulson/5841275?ean=9781529114423YouTube Videoshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Izy6GXhwt9s - a fantastic five minute overview of the ‘Wilder Weekend 2023’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTknDjRNTSA - longer version of the above including interviews with speakers tackling issues such as the modern approach to farming, whether more wilding means less food security, the importance of pollinators, and the impacts of climate change.

In this episode we interview Professor Tom Crowther, renowned ecologist at the forefront of biodiversity research. Tom paints a vivid picture of biodiversity loss, aptly termed the 'silent crisis,' and sheds light on its intrinsic link to human existence and the human activities that are contributing to its depletion. The discussion then moves into the fantastic work of the Crowther Labs, including their innovative digital platform: Restor. A highlight of our conversation is the celebration of a restoration effort in Kenya, where communities are working together to shield clusters of trees vital for water retention in drought-affected areas. We then go on to address global and national initiatives including 30 x 30 and biodiversity net gain credits. Finally, Professor Crowther gives us all suggestions about tangible steps we could take to champion biodiversity preservation.Your HostsTom Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/Chloe Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-constable-24155821b/Our GuestProfessor Tom Crowther is an internationally acclaimed ecologist known for his pioneering work in understanding the intricate relationships within ecosystems and their broader impact on global climate. As the driving force behind Crowther Labs, his research explores the complexities of biodiversity loss and its repercussions on our planet. With a keen focus on combining big data with localised environmental solutions, Professor Crowther's insights have significantly influenced the global discourse on sustainability and climate change. His unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and innovative approaches to conservation make him a leading voice in the field and an inspiration to both peers and the next generation of ecologists. https://crowtherlab.comGrange Project Contact & Social MediaEmail: hello@grangeproject.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/grange.project/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/grangeprojectYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GrangeProjectLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/Listen out for:[00:00:00] News from the Grange Project including: update on podcast statistics, exciting developments in the appointment of our ecology consultancy and Tom shares the love for his spinach seeds![00:04:00] Chloe introduces Professor Tom Crowther, an ecologist specialising in [00:07:02] Tom describes what is meant by biodiversity loss as the ‘silent crisis’ and talks about how fundamental biodiversity is to our existence.[00:11:49] We discuss the primary human activities that have contributed to biodiversity loss, including agricultural land use, climate and change. Plus what might happen if this biodiversity loss continues unchecked.[00:14:36] Tom describes the work of the Crowther Labs in addressing this crisis, including the importance of local solutions, big data and their digital platform: Restor.[00:18:16] Celebration of a restoration project in Kenya where the local community is protecting clusters of trees that help to trap water in a drought stricken area. [00:23:00] Discussion about the global commitment to halt biodiversity loss decided at the biodiversity COP in 2023: 30 x 30.[00:24:59] Interesting chat about biodiversity net gain credits and some of the problems and possibilities of this approach to financing nature recovery.[00:31:46] Tom shares ideas about what individual listeners can do to help halt biodiversity loss, where they can find out more about these topics and what we could consider here at the Grange Project.[00:38:04] Chloe and Tom reflect together on the episode, including what they’ve learnt from registering the Grange Project on Restor.Keen for more?  Websites:https://www.restor.eco/ Restor brings transparency, connectivity, and ecological insights to restoration and conservation efforts around the world. The Restor platform is easy to use and insights are based on the best available science and technology.https://www.decadeonrestoration.org The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration aims to prevent, halt and reverse the degradation of ecosystems on every continent and in every ocean. It can help to end poverty, combat climate change and prevent a mass extinction. Tom's "No-Dig" Veg Patch YouTube Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xen3sfC3rOM Join, Co-Founder of the Grange Project, Tom on his first attempt at creating a 'No-Dig' veg patch. Embracing a new adventure, Tom explores the simplicity and benefits of a no-dig vegetable patch, demonstrating the process step-by-step, from laying out the ground to applying compost.Sam’s Linked In Profile (Work Experience Graduate):‘I utilised my background in environmental sciences to support the project on a variety of tasks including: creating online content; carrying out research; and editing educational blog articles.Along the way, I gained a valuable insight into the inner workings of a rewilding project, met with industry professionals, and developed a number of skills - in particular those relating to the outreach phase of a newly-launched conservation project’. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-halling-43ba0522a/Mentioned in this episode:Visit & Stay at the Grange ProjectWould you like to escape the trappings of the modern world and wake-up in the morning to one of the best views in South Wales, where only the birds are noisy? We have two beautiful and sustainably built ‘tiny homes’, carefully located in secluded locations across our 80 acre rewilding project.Visit Grange Project

In this episode, we discuss Tom's evolution to a 'reluctant eco-warrior' and co-founder of the Grange Project. We were then privileged to be joined by Lt Gen Richard Nugee who introduced us to the Climate Change and Sustainability Strategic Approach report he authored about the importance of a climate prepared defence force. We discuss the concerns an average British citizen should harbour about the report and make links between the ongoing cost of living crisis and narratives surrounding climate change. Richard brings an interesting perspective to the table, portraying the UK as one of the 'luckiest countries' in relation to climate change, and we discuss the issue of climate-induced migration, particularly its potential impact on Northern Europe. The episode closes with Richard sharing his reflections on the impact of the report, followed by Chloe and Tom pondering over the daunting challenges that lie ahead.Your HostsTom Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/Chloe Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-constable-24155821b/Our GuestLt Gen Richard Nugee is a highly decorated and experienced retired officer of the British Army. His extensive military career spans over three decades, during which he has held several prestigious roles, including serving as Chief of Defence People for the UK Ministry of Defence. His unique insights into the intersection between national security and climate change are incredibly valuable, as he is deeply knowledgeable about the security challenges posed by our changing climate. Known for his strategic thinking and nuanced understanding of global threats, Lt Gen Richard Nugee is a compelling voice in the critical conversation about the impacts of climate change on military operations and national security. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-nugee-cb-cvo-cbe-7633367/?originalSubdomain=ukGrange Project Contact & Social MediaEmail: hello@grangeproject.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/grange.project/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/grangeprojectYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GrangeProjectLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/Listen out for:[00:01:45] Chloe reflects with Tom about his journey to becoming a co-founder of the Grange Project and a ‘reluctant eco warrior’.[00:05:48] Richard introduces himself and the Climate Change and Sustainability Strategic Approach report.[00:15:27] Discussion about what the average British citizen should be most concerned about from the report.[00:23:22] The connections between the cost of living crisis and narratives around climate change, from absolutes to relatives.[00:27:27] Richard describes how the UK is one of the ‘luckiest countries in the world’ with respect to climate change, and the problems this creates in generating motivation for change.[00:32:53] The unique factors associated with climate migration and the impact this could have on Northern Europe.[00:40:50] Richard’s perception of the impact of his report and his personal connections to climate change.[00:48:17] Chloe and Tom reflect on the interview and the hard challenges facing us.Keen for more:  ReportThis report emphasises the pivotal role that Defence has to play in tackling climate change and adapting to its far-reaching impacts. Recognising climate change as an international priority and a global challenge, the report highlights the UK Government's commitment to sustainability and while noting the advances in climate-friendly practices, the report asserts the need for more drastic measures, including a strategic approach towards adaptation and resilience, sustainability and net-zero goals, and global leadership. The report emphasises that a climate-prepared Defence is necessary for the strength and security of the UK.https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/973707/20210326_Climate_Change_Sust_Strategy_v1.pdfMentioned in this episode:Visit & Stay at the Grange ProjectWould you like to escape the trappings of the modern world and wake-up in the morning to one of the best views in South Wales, where only the birds are noisy? We have two beautiful and sustainably built ‘tiny homes’, carefully located in secluded locations across our 80 acre rewilding project.Visit Grange Project

In this episode, Chloe introduces herself and her personal journey to the Grange Project. Tom and Chloe then interview Mark Lynas (British author and environmental activist) about the current realities of our climate crisis - the fact that we're unlikely to maintain global warming to 1.5 degrees and the severe implications of reaching 2 degrees. Mark underscores the pivotal role humans play in controlling emissions and calls attention to the crucial role government policies play in this. The episode concludes with an inspiring call-to-action for listeners to get involved in advocacy and campaigning. Finally, Chloe and Tom reflect on the engaging discussion, reiterating the significance of combined efforts in fighting the climate crisis.Your HostsTom Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/Chloe Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-constable-24155821b/Our GuestMark Lynas is a prominent British author, journalist, and environmental activist known for his work on climate change and environmental issues. He gained international recognition as a vocal advocate of scientific evidence and technology in addressing global challenges. Lynas authored several influential books, including "Our Final Warning: Six Degrees of Climate Emergency," which explored the potential consequences of global warming. Mark Lynas has been a powerful voice in the environmental movement, contributing to public awareness and the debate surrounding climate change and its impact on our planet.Website: https://marklynas.org, Twitter: https://twitter.com/mark_lynasGrange Project Contact & Social MediaEmail: hello@grangeproject.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/grange.project/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/grangeprojectYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GrangeProjectLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/Listen out for:[00:01:02] Tom interviews Chloe about her journey to becoming a co-founder of the Grange Project[00:08:43] Mark introduces himself and his many professional identities[00:13:55] We discuss how the world cannot hold to 1.5 degrees and the potential impacts of 2 degrees of warming[00:19:25] Mark talks about how humans have control over their emissions and the importance of government policy[00:26:50] A conversation about how the only thing that matters is collective efforts and holding our governments accountable[00:31:24] Ideas around how you can get involved in advocacy and campaigning[00:36:46] The ‘Wilder Podcast’ closing questions: what is the one thing you would hope listeners would take away from this conversation and what is one practical thing our listeners could do that would have an impact on the climate crisis?[00:38:25] Chloe and Tom reflect on the interview and the idea of ‘both/and’Keen for more:   Books‘Our Final Warning: Six Degrees of Climate Emergency’ by Mark Lynas: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/our-final-warning-six-degrees-of-climate-emergency-mark-lynas/943303?ean=9780008308575Mark Lynas delivers a vital and alarming account of the consequences of global warming. From devastating wildfires and disappearing ice caps to the threat of mass extinction, he urgently warns that time is running out to prevent irreversible climate chaos. This book serves as a final warning that we must act decisively to avert a catastrophic future for our planet and civilization.Websiteshttps://www.replanet.ngo/ RePlanet is an alliance of national environmental organisations that share the same values and ambitions. A network of grassroots citizen organisations driven by science-based solutions to climate change, biodiversity collapse and the need to eliminate poverty.Mentioned in this episode:Visit & Stay at the Grange ProjectWould you like to escape the trappings of the modern world and wake-up in the morning to one of the best views in South Wales, where only the birds are noisy? We have two beautiful and sustainably built ‘tiny homes’, carefully located in secluded locations across our 80 acre rewilding project.Visit Grange Project

Meet the dynamic couple behind a rewilding project on an 80-acre farm in Wales! They share their journey from climate ignorance to passionate advocates for biodiversity. Discover their goals for community engagement and sustainable living. The hosts delve into the significance of personal choices in the fight against climate change, including their shifts to electric vehicles and plant-based diets. Plus, learn about the balance of financial viability and environmental stewardship in their exciting plans for the future!

Welcome to the trailer episode of the Wilder podcast, where your hosts Tom and Chloe introduce themselves, the podcast, and what to expect from future episodes.[00:00:26] Tom and Chloe are a husband-and-wife duo, parents of three, and are ready to embark on their exciting new adventure with the Wilder podcast and the Grange Project. Baby Eleanor, their youngest, makes a special guest appearance![00:01:03] They discuss why listeners might be interested in their podcast, which will cover all things (re)wilding, sustainability, and biodiversity. They're excited to learn from experts from their positions as 'nature novices'.[00:01:33] Tom, a former British Army officer, introduces himself and his journey that led him to co-host the Wilder podcast.[00:01:48] Chloe, a clinical psychologist who specialises in Systemic Psychotherapy, introduces herself, her passions and her slight trepidation about being co-host of a podcast![00:02:30] They introduce the Grange Project, an endeavour to rewild 80 acres of moderate grade agricultural land in Monmouthshire. Their goal is to learn from experts, ask the challenging questions, and share their journey.[00:03:48] They discuss the key themes the podcast will explore, including rewilding, sustainability, and biodiversity. They address some of the debates in the field of rewilding, the impact of biodiversity loss, and the importance of understanding these concepts on a wider scale.[00:05:10] They delve into their plans for sustainability for their family, including hoped for ventures into horticulture and ecotourism. They also discuss the necessity of the financial feasibility of their projects.[00:06:39] Tom shares a military analogy to explain their approach to creating influence and driving change with the Grange Project.[00:07:49] Tom and Chloe encourage listeners to engage with their Facebook group and page - The Grange Project, and invite ideas for future guests and topics via their website, www.grangeproject.co.uk.[00:08:39] They wrap up the episode, excited for the journey ahead and the learnings they'll be sharing with their listeners.Join Tom, Chloe, and a selection of expert guests as they delve into the fascinating worlds of rewilding, sustainability, and biodiversity.