Havering Friends of the Earth

Organisations working together

by Ian Pirie; first published 7-Mar-2025

We are lucky to live in a 'green' borough, with lots of open spaces, parks and woods. We are also lucky to have a variety of groups and organisations that are working to protect our green spaces, the trees and plants, and the wildlife. Being able to visit open spaces, to be in the midst of nature, is good for our physical and emotional well-being, and nature gives us our air and water, as well as plants to eat - we depend on it!

We can also learn from nature.

Scientists tell us that nature consists of ecosystems. If you study a tree, or a pond, or a patch of grass you will find many different living things all interacting to help each other. Worms aerate the soil, birds spread seeds through their droppings, and so on. In a healthy ecosystem, one that is resistant to damage, there are many different parts, all working in a balanced way together.

What I hope is developing here in Havering is an 'ecosystem' of organisations whose collective efforts will really help our natural environment. Here are some examples.

There are many voluntary organisations: Thames Chase Community Forest has conservation volunteers who are planting literally thousands of trees, throughout the borough. They also clear footpaths, install bat boxes and dormouse boxes, and do other conservation work. Havering Wildlife Project monitors rivers, water voles, bats and more. Havering Green Streets and several 'Womble' groups clear rubbish from the streets, and plant flowers and shrubs. Essex Wildlife Trust looks after the centre in Hornchurch Country Park, and provides activities for children. The RSPB maintains the wetland nature reserve at Rainham Marshes. There are also friends of groups who look after our parks.

We mustn't forget that the council also plays its part, maintaining trees and hedges, and clearing rubbish and recycling.

How do we promote and encourage people to care for our natural environment? This is where campaigning groups come in. Havering Climate Coalition involves several campaigning groups - Cyclists, Friends of the Earth, Havering Clean Air, Pesticide Free Havering - which work with the council to maintain and improve our environment. There is a Green Forum which meets bi-monthly, involving the Council and the Coalition, to discuss issues of concern. Each group also campaigns separately of course.

If you want to know more about any of these organisations, do get in touch via our website or Facebook - search online for Havering Friends of the Earth.