9 easy ways to care for the South Downs National Park

March 31, 2019

Nine years ago today, a vision became a reality.

After years of campaigning, England’s newest National Park was born, designating 1600km2 of special landscape with its breathtaking views, unique heritage and hidden gems for the benefit of the nation.

Almost a decade on, the South Downs National Park is a thriving community. From farmers, to residents, to walkers, to visitors, to volunteer groups – each one is playing their part as custodians of this amazing place.

Our ninth birthday also coincides with the 70^th anniversary of the laws creating National Parks as the UK’s breathing spaces. Fittingly, it’s also the

Year of Green Action, a government-backed initiative aiming to encourage people to take action that is beneficial to the environment.

So, as we mark this special year, here are nine tips for caring for your National Park and becoming a custodian:

1. Experience it!

Whether it’s walking, cycling, running, kayaking, horse riding or just having a family picnic, get out and enjoy the beauty of the National Park – we promise it will inspire you!

2. Save water

Our unique chalk downland acts as a giant sponge, soaking up and storing millions of litres of water.

The South Downs is home to a huge aquifer that provides clean water to 1.2m people around the South East.

Simple tips include having a shower instead of a bath or turning off the tap when brushing your teeth.

3. Eat local

The South Downs National Park is home to a number of award-winning breweries, distilleries and wineries, not to mention our fantastic country pubs.

Enjoying the food and drink produced locally in the South Downs helps to support the network of businesses that are the lifeblood of the National Park’s economy.

4. Volunteer

Volunteering is simple, fun and one of the best things you can do to help look after our National Park.

There are dozens of local conservation groups with opportunities to help protect and enhance biodiversity.

Find out more about volunteering in the National Park.

5. Buy less plastic, and if you must buy it – recycle or bin it!

More disposable packaging means more plastic ends up in water courses.

Many birds are badly affected by plastic waste as it can be mistaken for nest-building material or food.

Litter can be broken down into tiny particles called microplastics, which cannot degrade and can remain in our food chain indefinitely.

6. Reduce chemical use in your garden

Our gardens are home to more wildlife and flora than we might realise.

Bees especially play a key role across our habitats and are an indicator species for the health of the National Park.

Excess fertiliser and pesticides run through the soil and can end up in our groundwater, rivers, streams and wetlands.

Consider organic methods for pest, weed and disease control.

7. Pick up litter

Not all of us are responsible for it but we all hate to see it.

Wherever you are in the National Park, make sure you bin litter or take it home.

8. Travel sustainably

Walk, cycle, use public transport or car share where possible.

The plus side of leaving the car at home is you’ll get to experience more of the National Park and get closer to the natural environment!

9. Share it!

If you love it, share it with others.

Be sure to capture the beauty of the South Downs and share those images on social media – it all helps to raise awareness of why this area is so special!