Biodiversity

Climate change is having a serious impact on the biodiversity of the planet, and with it some of our best natural defences to adapt and tackle it, such as carbon sinks in forestry and wetlands. Destruction of eco systems by humans and rising global temperatures caused by climate change, leads to reduced numbers of organisms which are vital for a healthy balance necessary to support all life on earth including ours. So it’s important to tackle both crises together.

What is Ashford doing?

As a Local Authority we have a duty to take steps to conserve and enhance biodiversity, a role which we welcome and take seriously. Supporting diverse habitats not only helps us restore our ecosystems, protect wildlife and the beauty of the natural world, but by restoring and supporting our ecosystems we support human resilience through food security and adaptation to impacts of climate change e.g wetland flood defences, or nature’s cooling leaves in urban areas. The task is challenging, but by working with partners we aim to improve the quality of our air, rivers and soils. We can also help individuals by sharing good practice and information on what you can do to help protect biodiversity and protect the environment through sustainable choices.

By law we are required to report on our biodiversity activities. Our Biodiversity Duty Statement and preliminary action outline document can be found here.

We intend to publish our first Biodiversity review report at the end of March 2026 and a full Land Management and Biodiversity Strategy later in the year.

How can you take action?

Whether you live in the countryside or in an urban area, you can still support wildlife whether you have a garden, wall or window box, helping nature’s good guys. Here are a few ideas of how to increase biodiversity.

Grow for pollinators in your garden or window box, with varieties of plants that flower in Spring, Summer and Autumn
If you have a garden – provide differing habitats – the more varied the garden landscape is the more favourable it will be to a wide range of species. Your garden can be sectioned off into areas with some areas of the lawn left as a wildflower meadow, shady areas planted with woodland flowers and others more structured. Plant a diverse range of plants as different insects thrive on different species.
Don’t cut your hedges during the bird breeding season March to October
Consider if your community can come together to set up a community garden. Get guidance on creating a community garden [pdf] 7303KB.
Plant a varied native species hedge or even an edible hedge including fruits
Provide sheltered places to nest and hide using old logs for insects or nesting boxes, for bats and birds
Create a compost heap by decomposing organic waste from the home you can recycle waste and create great fertiliser at the same time.
Boost your soil ecology by digging as little as possible. Every season add layers of semi-decomposed mulch. This will provide a protective barrier to soil and provide food for microorganisms.
Keep your guests hydrated by providing water using a shallow dish filled with stones and water. Also, a simple bird bath with give birds somewhere to bathe. Install a water butt and start collecting rainwater and make the most of the seasonal rainfall.
Identify existing ecology in your garden to enhance what you already have. Typically if you look for clues, nature will tell you what it wants. For instance, if one corner of your garden is extremely boggy perhaps you could create a small wetland! If there are multiple, small mammal trails perhaps you could provide some shelter.