When you hear the words "wildlife conservation", what comes to mind? Perhaps Sir David AttenboroughAn English broadcaster and natural historian known for his wildlife documentaries. , visiting Africa to witness the lives of lions. Probably not a young Black woman working to conserve woods in London.

But Chantelle Lindsay is different. She is a host on Springwatch, a co-presenter on CBeebiesCBeebies makes TV for toddlers and young children in the UK. Teeny Tiny Creatures, and presented the YouTube series Wildlife Watch. She has also become an advocateTo publicly recommend or support a particular cause.  for wider access to nature.¹

Born in 1994 in South Yorkshire, Lindsay studied Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation at university. She wanted a career in the environmental sector, but felt out of place in an industry that was mostly White.

Then, in 2018, she was offered a paid traineeship with the London Wildlife Trust and then a full-time position. This was part of a scheme to encourage people from under-represented backgrounds into the environmental sector. ²

Lindsay believes "Black people are not widely encouraged to connect with nature from a young age".³ Now, she is passionate about this cause, because "we need young people, we need under-represented voices".⁴

Some find nature boring. Others think the countryside is exclusiveSomething that only a small number of privileged people are allowed to access. or elitistRegarding other people as inferior because they lack power, wealth, or status. - especially those from ethnic minority backgrounds. As nature writer Anita Sethi points out, in the UK "only 1% of visitors to national parks are from BAMEBlack, Asian and Minority Ethnic. backgrounds".⁵

But Linsday thinks: "The environment is not exclusive, in fact it's the very essence of inclusive."⁶

There are many medical benefits from spending time in nature. It can result in improved sleep, a healthier immune systemThe network of cells, organs and proteins that defend the body from infection. and a reduction in the symptoms of depressionLow mood that affects someone's daily life, and can last for weeks or months. or anxietyA feeling of unease or worry. It can be mild or very severe..⁷ In fact, people who have regular access to nature are more likely to report that their lives are worthwhile.⁸

But accessing nature does not mean you have to live in the countryside. Benefits can also come from activities like visiting a local park or nature reserve, or even spending time in the garden.

The important thing is getting outside - whoever you are and whatever your background. As Chantelle Linsday argues: "Nature is for all and we should be free to experience it positively."⁹

Is nature our deepest need?

Yes: Spending time in nature has benefits for our mental and physical health. Those benefits can even come from activities like gardening or visiting a local park.

No: Nobody needs nature. Our needs are food, shelter, love and warmth. Nature is just a nice addition for those who live outside of cities.

Or... Humans and nature are all part of the same ecosystem. But under-represented communities need to feel welcome and wanted in the natural world.