naturethrive podcast episode 15 - The Allerton Project Head of Sustainable Farming Joe Stanley
This episode is a conversation with Joe Stanley, a prominent figure in the UK agricultural community. Joe shares insights from his experience as a farmer and influencer in the agricultural space. We discuss the significant challenges faced by farmers today, including climate change, fair compensation, and sustainable practices. The episode also delves into the importance of water, soil health, and the economic pressures on the farming industry. Joe provides an in-depth look at the Allerton Project, a working farm demonstrating sustainable farming practices. Tune in for a rich conversation on building resilient farming businesses and the critical role of farmers in our society.00:00 Introduction to the Nature Thrive Podcast00:30 Meet Joe Stanley: The Farming Influencer01:30 Challenges in Modern Farming03:46 The Allerton Project: Sustainable Farming12:41 Water: The Next Big Environmental Challenge17:58 Economic Realities of Farming21:37 The True Cost of Food Waste22:01 Economic Pressures on Food Prices22:43 Farmers' Financial Struggles23:56 Diversifying Farm Income27:55 Biodiversity Net Gain: A Potential Solution?32:20 Best and Worst Experiences in Nature35:50 Reflecting on Agricultural Challenges38:44 Closing Thoughts and Key StatisticsSend us a text
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naturethrive podcast episode 14 - Bellway Homes Group Head of Biodiversity Neil Beamsley
This episode discuss the evolving role of biodiversity in the UK housing sector. This insightful episode explores the impact of policy changes, such as biodiversity net gain (BNG), on the UK's largest housebuilder, Bellway Homes. Neil shares his expertise on integrating biodiversity into housing projects, the challenges and opportunities faced by developers, and the importance of collaboration between the commercial and conservation communities. Tune in for a compelling conversation that highlights how structured and deliverable policies can make a tangible difference to the environment.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:28 Meet Neil Beamsley: Head of Biodiversity at Beltway Homes00:59 The Importance of Biodiversity in Housing Development01:21 Challenges and Opportunities in Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)02:22 Technical Challenges and Podcast Setup03:05 Neil Beamsley's Career Path04:56 Understanding Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)08:51 Legislation and Local Authority Roles in Biodiversity18:47 Onsite vs. Offsite Biodiversity Strategies22:38 The Role of Conservation Charities and Developers29:36 Personal Experiences and Reflections on Nature35:30 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSend us a text
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naturethrive podcast episode 13 - Planet Mark CEO Steve Malkin
This episode welcomes Steve Malkin, founder and CEO of Planet Mark, a leading sustainability and net-zero certification company. Having spent six years with Planet Mark, Jonathan brings an insider's perspective on their mission to help organizations measure and reduce their carbon footprints and transition to net zero.This episode delves into how Planet Mark makes climate action accessible and commercially viable for businesses. They discuss the critical role of a well-planned and costed net-zero strategy and how Planet Mark fosters a supportive community for companies committed to climate action. The conversation also explores the vital connection between climate and nature, highlighting nature's role in providing solutions and making sustainability more tangible.Steve Malkin shares his inspiring vision for Planet Mark, which he founded on the belief that businesses can lead the charge toward a low and net-zero future. His positive and business-focused approach to sustainability offers a refreshing contrast to traditional "gloom and doom" narratives. The podcast also touches on how Planet Mark incorporates nature into its certification, creating direct connections with organizations like the Eden Project and Cool Earth.The episode was recorded outdoors in sunny Kent, immersing listeners in the sounds of nature, including birdsong, enhancing the podcast's theme.Send us a text
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naturethrive podcast episode 12 - Strata Homes Planning Director Claire Linley and Sustainability Manager Elsie Hargate
This episode discusses biodiversity net gain (BNG) with Claire Linley, Planning Director, and Elsie Hargate, Sustainability Manager at Strata Homes, a leading UK housebuilder. They explore Strata's commitment to sustainability, evidenced by their "homes that make the heart beat faster" ethos and their proactive nature and biodiversity policy.The conversation delves into the opportunities and challenges of BNG, particularly the complexities of its implementation. Claire and Elsie discuss the differing impacts on brownfield versus greenfield sites and the inconsistencies in application by local authorities. They highlight the benefits of BNG in creating a more level playing field for developers committed to environmental considerations, while also pointing out the ongoing "teething problems" with its delivery mechanisms.A key topic is the "on-site versus off-site" debate regarding BNG credits. Claire explains the rationale for off-site solutions when they offer greater ecological benefit, despite current regulations sometimes disincentivizing this. Elsie emphasizes the importance of both approaches, especially when on-site efforts can create valuable wildlife corridors. They also touch on the long-term management of BNG areas and how Strata Homes engages residents through initiatives like hedgehog highway leaflets to foster a connection with nature on their developments.Jonathan also shares a quote from "Wild Service: Why Nature Needs Us" by Nick Hayes and John Moses, emphasizing nature's role in human well-being and community. He also gives a shout-out to Spotify Premium for its growing collection of nature-themed audiobooks.Send us a text
This episode of the naturethrive Podcast we dive into the evolving landscape of sustainability and nature reporting with our insightful guest, Marina Bradford. Founder of the consultancy Bemari, Marina brings a wealth of experience in helping organisations understand and address their environmental impact. We explore whether the increasing focus on nature by businesses is a passing trend or a fundamental shift, and how it interlinks with climate action. Marina shares her fascinating journey into this field, from her background in audit and risk management to establishing her own consultancies. We discuss the changing cultural attitudes towards sustainability across different global regions and within corporate environments, examining how these perspectives influence action. We also unpack the evolution of language in the sustainability space, from CSR to ESG and beyond, and demystify the crucial concept of double materiality. Finally, we delve into why nature and biodiversity are gaining prominence and how we can make these vital conversations more accessible to a wider audience.Send us a text
The naturethrive podcast is here to inspire and connect you with nature, while exploring practical solutions to the environmental and planetary challenges we face.Through engaging conversations with expert guests, we’ll delve into the issues affecting our world in a way that’s accessible and uplifting, not overwhelming. We’ll highlight real stories and experiences that bring hope and optimism, showcasing a wide range of current and future solutions—from large-scale initiatives to everyday actions—that can help ease eco-anxiety and drive positive change.Our guests include farmers, organisations, and solution providers who are making a difference in nature restoration, sharing their journeys and the impactful work they’re doing.Each episode will also feature three recurring questions that explore the first, best, worst, and weirdest moments in nature, giving you an authentic and personal glimpse into the experiences that shape our connection with the natural world.
New Zealand