Everyone's nature conservation

Nature needs everyone’s help to cope

Man is exceptionally successful as a species, but alas, this success has come at a high cost. We have influenced the Earth’s climate, pushed about a million species to the brink of extinction, and lost or fragmented vast amounts of habitat. In Estonia, too, where we love to think that there is a lot of nature left, the maps describing the state of ecosystems show the cold hard truth – nature is in good shape only in protected areas. However, protected areas are simply not enough for many species if the landscapes between them are not managed sustainably and diversely. In order to preserve the biota of meadows, forests and wetlands, a favourable living environment must be maintained over a sufficiently large area while also extending beyond the boundaries of protected areas.

One possible way forward is everyone’s nature conservation – if each of us consciously thinks and acts to preserve biodiversity and makes sure, to the best of our ability, that there are as many favourable habitats as possible in landscapes.
  • As a house or landowner, you can create small natural ecosystems in your garden, for example, by partially replacing large lawns with native meadow species and creating habitats suitable for pollinators.
  • As a farmer, you can design your fields in such a way that they ensure the functioning of natural ecosystems as well as agricultural yields as best as possible.
  • As an entrepreneur, you can get acquainted with the ecosystems in your area of operation, draw up an informed and environmentally friendly action plan.
  • As the owner of wind farms, you could maintain the meadow communities around the wind turbines, thus offsetting the levy imposed upon the landscape.
  • As the developer of quarries, and during their recultivation, one can consciously take into account the biodiversity status and area based needs of the surrounding communities.
  • In the case of road construction, road edges could be left as an alternative home for meadow plants and related insect species.
  • As a consumer, you can make more environmentally friendly choices and avoid waste. This includes, among other things, transport, electricity and food choices.

You can also contribute to nature conservation by contributing to ELF initiatives:
  • By participating in conservation holidays, where the habitats and communities of different species are maintained and restored.
  • Coming to the rescue, if necessary, to eliminate the consequences of oil spills, for example, to clean up the coast and help various species.
  • Helping tens of thousands of migrating frogs safely cross highways every spring.
  • Participating in the Let’s Do It! collective action day.

Read more about opportunities to participate as a volunteer HERE!