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

But Chantelle Lindsay is different. She is a host on Springwatch, a co-presenter on CBeebies Teeny Tiny Creatures and has presented the YouTube series Wildlife Watch. She has also appeared in an ITV documentary with Prince William; written blogs, articles and poetry; and become an advocate for wider access to nature.¹

Born in 1994 in South Yorkshire to parents with African-Caribbean heritage, from an early age Lindsay was in love with the natural world. She later studied Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation at university, graduating with a First.

On leaving university, Lindsay wanted a career in the environmental sector. But she could not afford the months of unpaid work experience most jobs required. She also 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. It later became a full-time position, working on woodland restoration and community engagement in London's Great North Wood landscape.²

Lindsay's training was part of a scheme to encourage people from under-represented backgrounds into the environmental sector. This was important, as she believes "Black people are not widely encouraged to connect with nature from a young age."³ Now, she is passionate about this cause, saying "we need young people, we need under-represented voices".⁴

Some find nature boring. Others worry that there is no money in environmental jobs. Many think the countryside is exclusive 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".

Anita Sethi also believes "nature should be for everyone - not just the privileged few".⁵ Chantelle Lindsay agrees, claiming: "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. According to scientists, 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 be happy and report that their lives are worthwhile.⁸

But accessing nature does not mean you have to live in the countryside. Similarly, you do not have to go hiking in the mountains to receive all its benefits. These 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 Lindsay 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 today some people believe that the countryside is reserved for White, middle-class or otherwise privileged people.