DAUK joined more than 60,000 people on a march through central London to urge political leaders to take stronger action on biodiversity loss.
The Doctors’ Association UK stood alongside organisations such as the National Trust, RSPB, and the Wildlife Trusts calling for political parties to Restore Nature Now.
The march presented an opportunity to meet people from all walks of life, with the shared goal to help nature so that nature can help us.
The day concluded with speeches from prominent environment campaigners, including Steve Backshall, Chris Packham, Megan McCubbin, Feargal Sharkey and others.
Dr Matthew Lee, DAUK’s sustainability lead, said “It was a fantastic day and really inspiring to know that so many people care about healing our natural world.
“The organisers did a fantastic job in ensuring it was a safe and inclusive event, and it was amazing to see people of all ages coming together for one goal.
“We hope the next government is ambitious in its goals and if not, I’m sure we’ll be back again in even greater numbers.”
DAUK campaigns on biodiversity loss because nature and healthy ecosystems are essential to human health.
Nature improves air quality, reduces peak temperatures in heatwaves, ensures food security, improves mental health and has countless other health benefits.
However nature in the UK has been decimated over recent decades, losing 97 per cent of wildflower meadows and having hundreds of species at risk of extinction, including hedgehogs and water voles.
While DAUK understands the reasons why some people may take non-violent direct action, as an organisation we only attend events that are in line with the law at the time.
Dr Lee said: “I’m sure there will be future environmental marches and we’d encourage our members to join us on these enjoyable family-friendly events to demand the government Restores Nature Now.”
