We are in a climate and nature emergency. Since 1970, the UK has seen 41% of species decline, making it one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world. Devon’s rural landscape straddles two coastlines, two moors, and a patchwork of woodlands, wetlands, meadows, hedgerows, rivers, and estuaries. Once a haven for biodiverse wildlife on land and in its coastal waters - intensive farming, escalating housing development, and industrial fishing have severely diminished nature in Devon.

Grassroots nature restoration tackles multiple problems simultaneously: increasing biodiversity; sequestering carbon; preventing floods, droughts, and soil erosion, reducing or cleaning up pollution, and offering people more opportunities for nature connection, enhancing physical and mental health. DEF specialises in identifying the most innovative, impactful grassroots nature restoration projects in Devon – providing vital kick-start or scale-up support.