Nearly half parliamentary constituencies have limited access to nature, despite climate extremes increasing need for cool, shady and nature-rich spaces

A new paper, unveiled today (17th September) by The Wildlife Trusts, outlines how improving access to nature across Britain should be a priority for Prime Minister Burnham’s Government. It follows research suggesting many still do not have parks, gardens or bodies of water within a 15-minute walk of their home, undermining the public health benefits associated with spending time outdoors.

Following the heat emergency of the summer, when inner city temperatures soared to over 38 C, the paper – Unlocking nature for all: How to increase access to nature for a fairer, healthier country – suggests that to reduce the impacts of climate extremes and improve physical health and well-being outcomes, peoples’ access to nature must improve.