News: May 2005

A survey by the Woodland Trust has produced some startling statistics showing just how unfamiliar our children are with their natural environment.

The survey found that the vast majority of children could not identify the leaves of even our most common native trees. Even one of our most recognisable species, the oak (Quercus spp.), was only recognised by 20% of 7-14 year olds. Despite the children indicating a craving for greener environment, 40% of 7-10 year olds had never visited a wood. Destruction of our native habitats was way down on the list of environmental issues dealt with by schools - subjects like waste recycling and global warming were much more likely to be covered. 76% of children were more likely to spend their social time outside shops, on the streets or on waste ground than in woodland or countryside.

Figures like these highlight the need to reconnect our children with their natural environment and gardens could be a powerful tool for doing that.

Dan Webber. City children losing touch with nature. http://services.press.net/pressnet/communitynewswire/index.jsp?story_id=874816&setStyle=mlStory&returnStyle=heading.cnw on May 2nd 2005.