I am a journalist based in Glasgow in Scotland, which is currently part of the UK. I have a wide range of skills from sub-editing to live radio and sound-rich audio packages, and can take a photo if needed. I specialise in Scottish environmental issues, land management, tourism, outdoor activities ...

Farmers fear 'devastating' impact as Cairngorms eye beaver release

02 Oct 2023  |  www.thenational.scot  |  English  |  Environmental Impact

The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) is planning to apply for a licence to release over a dozen beavers in the upper Spey valley, marking the first reintroduction of wild beavers to the Cairngorms. This move aligns with the Scottish Government's policy to spread beavers across Scotland. While the CNPA highlights the environmental benefits, local farmers, represented by Ian Wilson of the National Farmers Union Scotland, express concerns about potential flooding and damage to farmland. Jamie Williamson, a nearby estate owner, fears the beavers could disrupt his land and infrastructure. The CNPA assures that mitigation measures will be in place, supported by NatureScot and park staff. The initiative has received mixed reactions from the public, with a majority supporting the reintroduction but local residents showing more apprehension.

Tags:

RSPB Cairngorms National Park Authority National Farmers Union Scotland NatureScot Scottish Government

Balanced

Factuality Scale

A highly motivated, resourceful director specialising in adventure, natural history and remote location work, Charlie is known for his creativity and leadership, combined with a superb work ethic, adept at adapting to challenging environments and managing complex logistics and H&S. A veteran of ...

Parham Park and Rackham Banks Walk, South Downs

22 Jun 2021  |  BaldHiker  |  English  |  Hiking

This article describes a 6-mile circular walk in the South Downs, UK, with scenic views across the Arun valley and Amberley Wild Brooks. The walk starts in the village of Rackham and includes a visit to Parham Park, known for its Elizabethan House. The route takes walkers through various landscapes, including chalk grasslands, panoramic hilltops, and ancient woodlands. Highlights of the walk include the Amberley Wild Brooks and RSPB reserve, Rackham Banks, Kithurst Hill, and the historic Parham House and Park. The walk is described as leisurely, with opportunities to observe wildlife such as deer and red kites, and to appreciate the area's natural beauty and historical significance.

Tags:

RSPB

Jonathan is a print, radio, and video journalist. He was based in the Middle East for two years and is now reporting throughout the former Soviet Union.
 
His work has been published by BuzzFeed World, Politico, MSNBC, the International Business Times, the Independent, Vice News, Radio France ...

Ravens cleared over collapse of waders

01 Oct 2023  |  The Independent  |  English  |  Environmental Research

New research by the RSPB and the University of Aberdeen's Centre for Environmental Sustainability has debunked the myth that ravens are responsible for the decline in wading bird populations in the UK. The study found only weak associations between the rise in raven numbers and the decline in curlew, lapwing, and dunlin populations, attributing changes to other factors like habitat changes and increased predators. Dr. Arjun Amar highlighted the ongoing conflict between land managers and conservationists over the raven's resurgence, despite their growing presence in urban areas and their historical role as carrion eaters.

Tags:

RSPB University of Aberdeen's Centre for Environmental Sustainability

Informative

Factuality Scale

Isabella Cipirska is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

National Trust issues ‘red lines’ on green protections after Liz Truss lambasts ‘anti-growth coalition’

05 Oct 2022  |  inews.co.uk  |  English  |  Economic Growth

The National Trust has issued seven 'red lines' to safeguard environmental protections amid concerns over Prime Minister Liz Truss's economic growth policies, which include lifting the fracking ban and easing planning regulations. The Trust, along with other environmental groups, fears these policies could harm nature and heritage sites. Director-General Hilary McGrady criticized Truss's 'anti-growth coalition' remarks, emphasizing the need for green growth. The Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs defended the government's commitment to environmental goals, despite plans to streamline regulations.

Tags:

RSPB National Trust Conservative Party The Woodland Trust The Wildlife Trusts CPRE Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View

Phoebe Cooke is a freelance journalist based in London.

Drax ‘Lobbying Efforts’ Revealed in Internal Treasury Memos

24 Jan 2023  |  DeSmog  |  English  |  Carbon Capture Technology

Drax, a major power station operator, is exerting significant pressure on UK government departments to influence energy policy in favor of its controversial carbon capture technology, BECCS. Internal documents reveal Drax's extensive lobbying efforts, including meetings with senior ministers and civil servants. Environmentalists and campaigners criticize the technology as costly and unproven, and express concerns over the sustainability of Drax's bioenergy practices. The article highlights the government's willingness to engage with Drax despite warnings from scientists and green groups, raising questions about the influence of corporate lobbying on public policy.

Tags:

RSPB Treasury Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Greenpeace Biofuelwatch Ember Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Left

Political View

Marthe de Ferrer is a journalist based in Manchester, United Kingdom.

Global Biodiversity Framework: Almost 200 countries have signed, but is it ‘truly historic’?

20 Dec 2022  |  www.euronews.com  |  English  |  Environmental Conservation

Almost 200 countries have agreed on the new Kumming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) at COP15, committing to protect 30% of the planet by 2030, increase financing for nature restoration, and halt human-induced extinction. The framework includes 23 targets and four goals, with the 30x30 pledge being the most discussed. While the agreement is ambitious and has received broad support, some express concerns about its implementation and the lack of legally binding commitments. The framework also emphasizes the role of Indigenous communities in biodiversity conservation, though some argue it doesn't go far enough in securing their rights.

Tags:

RSPB European Commission Zoological Society of London IPBES Wyss Foundation Campaign for Nature One Earth Wildlife and Countryside Link Cool Earth International Indigenous Forum on Biodiversity

Balanced

Factuality Scale

I'm a journalist based in Yorkshire. I studied journalism at Sheffield University and started my career in local newspapers, gaining NCTJ qualifications in Media Law, Public Affairs and 100wpm Teeline shorthand.

After a few years in local newspapers I moved to Nottingham and spent a couple of ...

Threatened: Puffins and People - A Complex Relationship

17 Mar 2024  |  BirdNote  |  English  |  Environmental Impact

The article is a transcript from the show 'Threatened' hosted by Ari Daniel, featuring a story about puffins at Bempton Cliffs on the Yorkshire Coast, UK. The story, reported by Paul Drury-Bradey, explores the relationship between humans and puffins, focusing on how the birds' cuteness and iconic status affect their conservation. Puffins are described as charismatic and a 'spark bird' that ignites a passion for birdwatching. The Yorkshire Wildlife Trust is organizing a puffin festival, and the puffin's role in the ecosystem and its vulnerability to climate change are discussed. The puffin's primary food source, sandeels, is threatened by warming waters, which could lead to a catastrophic decline in puffin populations. The article also touches on the impact of human activities, such as littering, on puffins. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds has classified the Atlantic Puffin as vulnerable to extinction. The story concludes with a message about the importance of local conservation efforts and the potential for puffins to inspire greater environmental awareness and action.

Tags:

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB)

I'm a multimedia reporter and writer. I have covered social change, conflict and rights in more than ten countries across the Middle East and Europe while based out of London, Rome and the West Bank.

I'm experienced across all aspects of digital journalism - from filing breaking news to ...

‘The Time is Now’: UK protesters urge climate action

26 Jun 2019  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Environmental Policy

Thousands of protesters in London demand stronger climate action from the UK government, urging faster progress towards net-zero carbon emissions and immediate steps to address environmental issues. The event, organized by The Climate Coalition and Greener UK, saw participation from over 100 groups and 200 MPs. The UK government recently committed to a 2050 net-zero target, but campaigners call for a 2045 target and additional policies. The article also highlights global climate protests, political responses, and the disproportionate impact of climate change on the poor.

Tags:

RSPB The Climate Coalition Greener UK WWF Friends of the Earth UK Government House of Commons House of Lords Advisory Committee on Climate Change Extinction Rebellion European Parliament European Council United Nations Christian Aid

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Left

Political View

Simon Heptinstall is a journalist based in Melksham, United Kingdom.

The best places in the UK to see the glories of spring, from Scotland to the Lake District

01 Apr 2023  |  Mail Online  |  English  |  Nature

Signs of spring are evident across the UK, with various locations offering unique experiences to enjoy the season. Highlights include Stourhead in Wiltshire, known for its tulips and azaleas, and Cornwall’s Fowey Estuary, famous for its bluebells and wild garlic. In the South East, Suffolk’s RSPB Minsmere coastal reserve is renowned for its birdsong, while Brogdale Collections in Kent boasts the world’s largest fruit tree collection. The Midlands feature the Golden Triangle in Gloucestershire, known for wild daffodils, and Rutland Water Park, famous for its waterbirds. Wales offers Bodnant Garden with its rare specimens and Aberglasney in Carmarthenshire, a restored Tudor estate. Scotland’s Glenwhan Gardens and Mar Lodge Estate in the Cairngorms are notable for their azaleas and black grouse. The North West and North East regions include Sizergh park in the Lake District, known for cherry blossoms, and Ripon in North Yorkshire, famous for its rhododendrons.

Tags:

RSPB BBC National Trust National Trust for Scotland

Factual

Factuality Scale

Tamara Hinson is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

Back from brink: 12 rare animals that have made a miraculous comeback from the verge of extinction

31 Mar 2025  |  www.discoverwildlife.com  |  English  |  Wildlife Recovery

The article highlights the successful recovery of 12 animal species from the brink of extinction, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts worldwide. Key species include the Arabian oryx, blue iguana, Gould's mouse, red kite, and Spix's macaw. Conservation organizations like the RSPB and Norfolk Wildlife Trust played significant roles in these efforts. The article underscores the importance of captive-breeding programs, habitat restoration, and international collaboration in wildlife conservation.

Tags:

RSPB Norfolk Wildlife Trust Mauritian Wildlife Foundation Zoological Society of London

Informative

Factuality Scale

I am a professional writer, with over 10 years experience.

My specialist areas are the environment, and visual arts, particularly photography and film.  I also do business copywriting and news, for businesses in London both B2B and B2C. My work has been published in various environmental ...

Bees Need Pods – Bee Refuelling Stations

28 Mar 2013  |  Green Jobs Blog  |  English  |  Climate Change

Bees are facing a global decline due to Colony Collapse Disorder, with potential causes including pesticides, parasites, and climate change. The RSPB suggests providing tired bees with sugary water. Inventor Jamie Hutchinson developed the Bee Station, a pottery pod designed to offer bees a place to rest and refuel. The Bee Station, made in Stoke-on-Trent, features shallow reservoirs for sugary water and ventilation holes, making it an ideal addition to gardens to support solitary bees and promote pollination.

Tags:

RSPB

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Kitty Logan is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

Assessing urban light pollution's worrying impact on the natural world

29 Nov 2020  |  newseu.cgtn.com  |  English  |  Environmental Impact

Light pollution, increasing by two percent annually, is affecting natural processes such as animal breeding patterns and plant blooming. Research from Exeter University reveals disruptions across various organisms, including birds, rodents, and sea turtles, with impacts on pollination, tree growth, and hormone levels. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds emphasizes the need to understand the long-term effects on bird populations. While LED lights save energy, they contribute to light pollution, and scientists suggest the public reduce unnecessary lighting.

Tags:

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) Exeter University

Informative

Factuality Scale

Print, radio

Best Remote Beaches in the UK - and How to Get to Them

18 Feb 2025  |  Active-Traveller  |  English  |  Tourism

The article explores some of the UK's most remote and secluded beaches, offering a guide to their unique features and how to access them. It highlights beaches in regions such as Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, East Sussex, West Sussex, Norfolk, Northumberland, Sutherland, Wester Ross, Isle of Harris, Ardnamurchan, Anglesey, Gower, and Pembrokeshire. The focus is on the natural beauty, tranquility, and wildlife of these locations, with practical advice on reaching these hidden gems. Organizations like the National Trust and RSPB are mentioned for their roles in preserving these areas.

Tags:

RSPB National Trust

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Siôn Pennar is a freelance journalist based in Poznań, Poland.

Formerly a Senior Reporter with BBC News based in Wrexham, Wales, he has years of experience in broadcasting for television and radio, as well as writing for online outlets.

Available for hire in Poland and neighbouring countries. ...

Call to protect habitats after 80% decline in curlew population

19 Apr 2019  |  BBC  |  Welsh  |  Brexit

Curlew numbers in Wales have declined by 80% since 1990, prompting RSPB Cymru to call for incentives for farmers to create suitable habitats through a new payment system post-Brexit. Currently, only about 400 pairs of curlews remain in Wales. The decline is linked to farming practices and predation. The Farmers' Union of Wales stresses the need for a balance between the rural economy and nature. The Welsh Government has consulted on proposals and plans further consultations later this year.

Tags:

RSPB Cymru Farmers' Union of Wales Welsh Government

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Jeremy Robson is a European journalist mainly focusing on video production and video journalism. He also has a passion for, and experience with, working on environmental topics as well as human rights, war and conflict, technology and innovation.

EU wildlife laws should be celebrated – and retained – not treated as red tape

02 Mar 2017  |  The Conversation  |  English  |  Wildlife Conservation

The article discusses the importance of EU wildlife laws, particularly the Birds and Habitats Directives, in protecting significant wildlife habitats in the UK, such as the Thames Basin Heaths. It criticizes Michael Gove's stance on deregulating these protections post-Brexit, highlighting the potential risks to wildlife conservation. The article also touches on the uncertain future of environmental protections in the UK after Brexit, despite promises from David Davis and Andrea Leadsom. Historical context is provided through the contributions of Tufton Beamish to UK environmental legislation.

Tags:

RSPB European Union Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Mark Smith is a freelance journalist, copywriter and digital content writer based in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

He has written for the Guardian, BBC, Daily Mirror Online and Express Online as well as Very.co.uk and Littlewoods. 

Areas of expertise include all aspects of business and ...

Firth of Forth wind farm ‘spells disaster’ for Scotland’s seabirds

12 Apr 2023  |  www.thetimes.co.uk  |  English  |  Environmental Concerns

SSE Renewables' plan to build a large offshore wind farm in the Firth of Forth has been met with objections due to potential risks to Scotland's seabird population. The proposed 307-turbine Berwick Bank scheme aims to contribute to Scotland's offshore wind target but faces criticism from environmental groups and the Scottish Seabird Centre for its potential environmental impact.

Tags:

RSPB Scottish Seabird Centre Marine Scotland

Informative

Factuality Scale

Freelance journalist
Editor, IranWire English
Editorial assistant, Banipal Magazine
Formerly Archant Investigations Unit + Oxford Mail

Sprawling new country park to open on edge of Banbury

13 Jun 2017  |  www.oxfordmail.co.uk  |  English  |  Environment

Plans for a 30-hectare country park in Banbury have been approved by Cherwell District Council, with the park set to open next spring. The development, which includes woodland, meadow areas, wetland, and a small lake, aims to enhance biodiversity and provide accessible green spaces for residents. The project involves multiple conservation organizations and has secured initial funding of £240,000, with additional funding sought for future phases.

Tags:

RSPB Cherwell District Council Environment Agency Canal and Rivers Trust Woodland Trust

Informative

Factuality Scale

Margaret Ward is an award-winning journalist based in Dublin, Ireland. She was formerly the Foreign Editor and China correspondent at Ireland's public service broadcaster RTE and has twenty years experience, mostly covering foreign affairs. She is available to report and comment on Irish politics ...