Quakers in Sheffield Central Meeting declared a Climate and Ecological Emergency in 2019. Today (21st May 2021) we are joining with other groups and individuals for Sheffield in declaring a Nature Emergency. Nature Recovery Sheffield has been set up to help restore local nature and wildlife. Asking groups to make this declaration is the first step in its plan to encourage everybody to take action for nature in Sheffield.
Liz Ballard, Chief Executive of Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust, says: “Nature is in trouble – we are losing our wildlife at a faster rate than ever before. In fact, one in four species in the UK are now at threat of extinction. People, including David Attenborough, are calling this the 6th global mass extinction.
“The UK is one of the most ‘nature depleted’ countries in the world. And it’s happening right here on our doorstep in Sheffield. We rely on nature to provide us with clean air, water, food and space to enjoy and breathe.We need to declare a Nature Emergency and take action for nature’s recovery.”
Quakers say:
We do not own the world, and its riches are not ours to dispose of at will. Show a loving consideration for all creatures, and seek to maintain the beauty and variety of the world. Work to ensure that our increasing power over nature is used responsibly, with reverence for life. Rejoice in the splendour of God’s continuing creation.
More on Quaker climate activism nationally here