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The benefits of creating more semi-natural habitats on former industrial sites

Can you think of any benefits the community would gain here? Copyright: Alice Davies, RSPB

According to the RSPB's analysis, we stand to gain in several ways from working to restore mineral sites to large-scale wildlife habitats:

Supporting and generating economic activity

Jobs in nature conservation require skills in environmental education, natural sciences, visitor services and countryside management. RSPB reserves in the UK support 1000 jobs, bringing new life into rural areas. These conservation workers and visitors to the reserves bring additional spending into the local area, multiplying the number of jobs supported.

Sustaining and enhancing our health

More than one million visits are made to RSPB reserves each year. This is an example of 'green' exercise, where the physical exertion of walking and climbing provides a secondary benefit, unnoticed while visitors carry out the primary activity of being outside, enjoying nature.

Offering educational chances

By providing opportunities for outdoor experience, nature reserves can deepen learners' understanding across the curriculum. They can help students gain a better grasp of environmental issues. They may help prevent future generations becoming populations of inactive, obese individuals.

Building sustainable communities

Biodiversity and natural green space can improve the quality of life for people in urban and rural communities. Restored mineral sites can act as positive 'magnets', as towns and villages in the vicinity become more attractive places to live and work. More people employed in a wider range of activities than might otherwise be the case, helps deal with issues of seasonality and lack of diversity in the countryside economy.

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