Together as committed partners, Earthed hopes more young black people become visible in the outdoor industry and feel represented in their roles as guardians of our planet. To dig deeper into our partnership, we spoke with CEO Anthony Owosekun to explore the poignancy of EMPOCA and his vision for a more representative future.

Earthed: “Anthony, EMPOCA is a cause close to our heart. Can you tell us the inspiration behind starting it?”

Anthony: “The inspiration behind EMPOCA came from a deeply personal place. Growing up as a Black child, I rarely saw people who looked like me in outdoor spaces, let alone in leadership roles connected to nature and environmental work. As a young boy in the early 90s, I was the only Black boy scout in my group and at the camps I attended in northern Germany. While I found solace in nature and loved the experiences, I always felt the absence of representation and a sense of true belonging. As an experiential educator and social worker later in life, I witnessed how transformative nature experiences can be for children and teens, especially for those navigating systemic barriers like racism. Yet, I also saw a lack of access and representation in these spaces for Black communities. EMPOCA was born to bridge this gap—by creating positive outdoor experiences specifically designed to foster leadership, confidence, and a deep connection to nature for Black youth across the DACH region.”

Earthed: “How do you see Earthed supporting Black Nature Heroes on their educational journey, to deepen their connection with nature?“

Anthony: “Earthed is a powerful ally in this mission. By offering nature skills and a platform to celebrate traditional and indigenous knowledge, Earthed provides Black Nature Heroes with tools to not only learn but to feel deeply rooted in their connection to the earth. Through this partnership, the participants of our first leadership program will gain access to nature teachers and community experiences that reinforce the understanding that nature belongs to everyone, and we all have a role in nurturing it. Earthed’s celebration of diverse knowledge holders will also uplift the voices and wisdom of Black communities, helping to dismantle the systemic erasure of Black contributions to environmentalism.”

“Regeneration isn’t just about ecosystems; it’s about healing relationships with the land and each other. For me, it’s a future where Black children see themselves reflected in the environmental sector”

Earthed: “What does a regenerated future look like for you, and Black Nature Heroes?“

Anthony: “A regenerated future is one where Black communities are not just participants in nature conservation but leaders. It’s a future where access to green spaces, environmental education and protection is no longer a privilege but a right. For Black Nature Heroes, this means cultivating a generation of environmental stewards who are empowered to protect the planet and redefine how we care for it—both through traditional practices and innovative solutions. Regeneration isn’t just about ecosystems; it’s about healing relationships with the land and each other. For me, it’s a future where Black children see themselves reflected in the environmental sector, whether that’s in leadership, policy-making, or grassroots action.”

Earthed: “What can individuals, charities, and businesses in the environmental sector do to support Black Nature Heroes to feel a sense of belonging and representation in the sector?“

Anthony: “The first step is to actively create inclusive and welcoming spaces. This means ensuring representation not just in marketing but also in leadership and decision-making. Charities and businesses can collaborate with grassroots organizations like EMPOCA to design programs that are culturally responsive and relevant to Black communities. Offering funding, mentorship opportunities, and platforms for visibility is crucial. It’s also important to challenge stereotypes about who belongs in nature and to dismantle barriers to access. Ultimately, the environmental sector needs to listen, learn, and act with intention to foster a sense of belonging for Black Nature Heroes.”

Earthed: “How do you visualise the coming years in Earthed’s partnership with EMPOCA?“

Anthony: “I see our partnership as a growing, symbiotic relationship where we inspire and learn from each other. Together, we can expand the reach of Black Nature Heroes, bringing Earthed’s incredible resources into our leadership programs and camps. I envision co-hosted workshops, shared storytelling initiatives, and collaborations that amplify Black voices in the environmental sector. Over the next few years, we can create ripple effects that not only empower individuals but also shape the environmental movement to be more inclusive, diverse, and equitable.”

Click here to support Anthony and EMPOCA, and transform representation and belonging for the black youth in the climate space.

If you would like to speak to someone at Earthed about a potential partnership, please get in touch.

The post Earthed Supports Black Nature Heroes at EMPOCA appeared first on Earthed.

Written by Monika Shukla, CEO & Co-Founder of Humble Bee

To make a prairie it takes a clover and one bee. — Emily Dickinson.

This simple truth captures the intricate dance between bees, ecosystems, food security, and human survival. Bees are indispensable pollinators that bolster agriculture and biodiversity. Yet they now face serious threats from climate change, habitat loss, and unsustainable practices. Protecting our food systems and planet demands that we rethink and elevate the role of beekeeping in ecosystem restoration.

As the CEO and co-founder of Humble Bee, India’s pioneering Apitech social enterprise, I’m dedicated to transforming beekeeping into a powerful driver of sustainable agriculture, community empowerment, and ecological resilience. At Humble Bee, we empower rural and forest communities—especially women—to build livelihoods that support biodiversity and restore ecological balance. This article dives into the journey and potential of sustainable beekeeping, a movement I hope will inspire others to join and “Bee the Change.”

Why Beekeeping? Why Now?

For centuries, honey has held a place of reverence in Indian culture, symbolizing prosperity, health, and vitality. But today, beekeeping offers solutions far beyond honey production. With pollinator populations plummeting worldwide, the need to support beekeeping as a critical ecological practice has never been more pressing. With more than 80% of our crops relying on these pollinators, this decline presents a risk to global food security.

Beekeeping emerges as a sustainable, impactful livelihood for rural and tribal communities in ecologically sensitive regions. Beekeepers, if empowered, have a potential to sustain biodiversity, boost crop yields, and improve soil health. All critical components in addressing climate change. However, a scalable, impactful system requires the right tools, training, and market access, which is where Humble Bee comes in.

The Humble Bee Movement: An Ecosystem-Based Approach

Our goal isn’t just to produce the real and the most authentic honey but to transform Indian agriculture by integrating sustainable and scientific beekeeping into rural livelihoods models. We are employing a “tech-and-touch” model, combining advanced tools with hands-on support, to foster a thriving beekeeping ecosystem. This approach is built on three foundational pillars:

1. Climate-Resilient Practices: We focus on climate-adaptive beekeeping that supports crop diversity, enhances soil health, and builds resilience to climate change. By implementing region-specific practices, we empower farmers and beekeepers to build economic and ecological resilience from the ground up.
2. Empowering Women Beekeepers: Women in rural India play essential roles in agriculture, yet they often lack income opportunities and face climate-related hardships. Beekeeping offers a flexible livelihood that fits well with their agricultural duties. Through training and resources, we enable women to confidently manage hives, fostering economic independence and community leadership.
3. Ecosystem Restoration: Bees are central to pollination, which directly impacts crop yields and biodiversity. By embedding beekeeping into agricultural landscapes, we’re promoting food security, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting ecological stability.
   

Our Journey So Far

Humble Bee officially took flight in July 2023, following a couple of years of groundwork to develop a model tailored to the unique challenges faced by rural beekeepers. In our first year, we forged partnerships with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, CGIAR, UNICEF-Yuwaah, Tata Trusts-CiNi, WWF-India, Aga Khan Foundation, along with public and private stakeholders, allowing us to reach India’s most climate-vulnerable regions. Our impact spans five states, where we work with communities in diverse terrains—from tiger reserves to agricultural zones. We have witnessed how beekeeping transforms lives, providing a reliable income for families and strengthening ecosystem resilience.

Leveraging Technology: Precision Beehives and AI-Driven Insights

One distinctive aspect of our model is the integration of technology. Through our AI-powered BEEKIND platform, we provide hyperlocal data on climate, crop trends, and pollination. BEEKIND offers actionable insights that help beekeepers make informed decisions about hive management and crop care. By bridging the gap between science and practice, we equip rural communities to tackle environmental challenges. With data on crop-pollination patterns and bee health, we’re building a foundation for resilient, sustainable agriculture. Through mobile access, rural beekeepers receive actionable insights, empowering them to make timely, data-driven decisions for hive management and crop care.”

Beekeeping for Climate Action: A Regenerative Food System

Beekeeping amplifies climate action by supporting regenerative agriculture, increasing crop pollination, and promoting biodiversity. A recent report issued by the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council indicates that India would need over 200 million beehives (From 3.4 million today) to achieve optimal pollination—potentially creating 20 million sustainable livelihoods. Scaling to over 200 million beehives would create a pollination system that not only supports India’s agriculture but could serve as a model for pollinator-focused climate solutions worldwide.

At Humble Bee, we see bees as catalysts for a resilient, low-emission food system. Beekeeping supports crop diversity, reduces synthetic fertilizer dependency, and promotes organic practices that protect soil and water health. Our goal is to make beekeeping a cornerstone of agroecology, enabling farmers to transition to practices that combat climate change.

Partnering for a Just and Inclusive Climate Transition

The obstacles to beekeeping’s widespread adoption are significant, but through partnerships and our unique intervention and capacity building models, we are extending sustainable solutions to the communities that need them most. Together, we’re building a future where beekeeping serves as a beacon of ecological and economic resilience. Our approach places communities at the center of climate action, rooted in the belief that environmental justice requires social equity. Beekeeping allows rural communities to move from vulnerability to agency, equipping them to shape climate-resilient futures.

Gender Equality through Beekeeping: Empowering Women for Change

Through beekeeping, women gain skills that lead to lasting impacts on their lives and communities, fostering gender equality and economic resilience. Beekeeping also provides young women with science-based skills and the opportunity to lead in climate solutions. In our experience, women tend to be better nurturers of bees than men. At Humble Bee, we witness the transformative power of beekeeping every day—from increased crop yields to flourishing biodiversity. Most importantly, we see women stepping up as climate advocates, inspiring others in their communities. By empowering women, we’re building a legacy of resilience and laying the groundwork for sustainable development.

A Golden Revolution: Our Vision for Scientific Beekeeping

Our vision is clear: a community-driven ecosystem where scientific beekeeping underpins sustainable income, biodiversity, and food security. By merging indigenous knowledge with cutting-edge practices, we’re creating a model that respects local traditions while fostering innovation. Inspired by India’s White Revolution in dairy, we envision a Golden Revolution in beekeeping. By 2028, we aim to empower one million beekeepers across India, having already mobilized 10,000 women who are leading the charge. Through every hive established and every crop pollinated, we’re advancing a climate-resilient future that prioritizes biodiversity, food security, and ecological health.

To realize this vision, we’re collaborating with policymakers and organizations like the National Bee Board and the National Rural Livelihood Mission. With increased support from government and development partners, we aim to embed sustainable beekeeping into India’s agricultural strategy as a vital tool in the fight against climate change.

Bee the Change: A Call to Action

The Humble Bee Movement redefines beekeeping as more than a source of honey. It’s a call to recognize beekeeping as a driver of sustainable agriculture, ecosystem restoration, and climate resilience. Empowering rural women to become skilled beekeepers not only supports individual livelihoods but also lays the foundation for a sustainable, climate-resilient future.

With each apiary established, every beekeeper empowered, and every crop pollinated, we’re crafting a legacy that supports biodiversity, food security, and ecological well-being. We invite you to join us in the Humble Bee Movement and #BeeTheChange for a brighter, more resilient future. Together, let’s ignite a “Golden Revolution” and show that even the smallest creatures can create monumental change.

Monica Shukla is the CEO and co-founder of Buzzworthy Ventures and is currently part of the 2024 cohort of the Women Climate Collective, a platform which supports emerging women leaders to lead climate action, towards a just, gender-inclusive climate transition.

The post Bee the Change: How Sustainable Beekeeping Contributes To Climate Action appeared first on Earthed.

Dear Earthed Community,

As we approach the end of the year, I want to take a moment to thank you for your incredible support. Your commitment, belief in our mission, and enthusiasm for building a brighter future have shaped Earthed into what it is today. We couldn’t be more grateful.

Our Vision, Your Impact

Thank you for believing in our vision—a vision of making nature skills free and accessible to everyone, no matter where they are. When we began, we had a big, beautiful dream: a world where anyone who wants to make a difference for the planet has the tools, knowledge, and community to do it.

Have you ever felt the spark to help but weren’t sure where to start? That’s why Earthed exists—to make nature skills accessible and empower you to act. Whether it’s planting trees, regenerating soil, or restoring local waterways, we’re here to show you exactly how you can make an impact as an ecological citizen.

Together, We’ve Accomplished So Much

Thanks to you, Earthed has:

• Reached over 50 million people
• Built a community of 10,000 passionate members
• Launched 20+ courses teaching practical, real-world nature skills

What started as an idea has grown into a movement.

Looking Ahead to 2025: Bigger Goals, Bigger Impact

We’re excited to share our vision for 2025:

• 40,000 Members Strong: Help us create a global network of people restoring nature.
• Free for those who need: Your support enables us to continue to give free access to Earthed.
• Launch 20 Programmes: We have nearly 20 new Earthed courses awaiting resources to be released. Your support means we can share courses on Agroforestry, Reforestation, Regenerative Agriculture, and Water Restoration
• Help us launch the Action Fund: As Earthed grows its donating membership base, we will create an Action Fund to support grassroots projects

It’s a big, ambitious vision, but with the right people beside us—including you—we know it’s possible.

How You Can Help Us Finish 2024 Strong

Our goal is to raise £30,000 to keep Earthed free and open for everyone. Every pound will be matched, and every single donation fuels our mission, allowing us to reach more people and support more grassroots action.

Whether you can give £5, £50, or more, know that your support makes a real impact. Your donation is a way of saying, “I believe in a world where anyone can step up for the planet.” And it helps us keep education free for all.

Your Impact Matters

If you are reading this, you’re already part of Earthed’s story. I’m deeply grateful for everything you’ve done to help us get here. Together, let’s end this year strong and set the foundation for an even bigger, bolder 2025.

With love,
Christabel Reed

P.S. Your donation is tax-deductible, and if your employer offers a corporate matching program, your gift could be doubled again. Thank you for all that you do!

The post A Message From Our Founder: Together We Can Unlock £30,000 for Restoration appeared first on Earthed.

Take action to help protect and restore these critical ecosystems, here are some ways to get involved:

1. Local Clean-Up Initiatives

Participating in local clean-ups is a hands-on way to make a difference. Organizations like the Surfrider Foundation and Ocean Conservancy regularly host beach and underwater clean-up events. You can find local events on their websites and join like-minded individuals to help keep our coastlines clean.

• Surfrider Foundation (US based): Find a beach clean-up near you.
• Ocean Conservancy (worldwide): Join the International Coastal Cleanup.
  

2. Citizen Science Projects

Citizen science allows you to contribute valuable data to marine research. Here are some exciting projects you can join:

• Coral Reef Listening Project: Help scientists monitor fish populations by analyzing underwater sounds from coral reefs. You can do this from your own home!! Just listen and click when you hear a fish! Learn more here and participate here.
• iNaturalist: Use this platform to document marine life in your area. Your observations help researchers track biodiversity. Start contributing.
• Coral Watch: Engage in coral health monitoring by assessing color changes in corals, essential for understanding reef health. Join here.
• Manta Trust: Join efforts to protect manta rays by contributing to research and awareness campaigns. You can adopt a manta ray (great Christmas gift!) or join a research expedition. Get involved here.
• Marine Conservation Society (MCS): Participate in beach cleans, data collection, and various conservation projects across the UK. Check them out here.

3. Volunteer Opportunities

Many organisations offer research, education, and hands-on restoration projects. Here are a couple to check out:

• MCS: Engage in beach cleans, species monitoring, and educational outreach in the UK. Explore volunteering options.
• Sign up for WiseOceans careers board for free here and get a wide range of volunteering opportunities, internships and paid jobs to your inbox weekly

4. Advocacy and Education

Educating yourself and others is crucial for marine conservation. You can participate in workshops, take online courses, and read materials about marine issues. Advocacy for policy change is also vital.

• Earthed Coral Reef Restoration Course: Gain knowledge on coral restoration techniques. Enrol here.
• Waterlust: Sign up for a newsletter that shares ocean-related content every Sunday. Great for staying informed! Subscribe here, and check out their sustainable shop here.
• WiseOceans Academy runs fun online lessons for children to spark their passion for the marine world: WiseOceans Academy. And read inspiring interviews from people working in marine restoration here.
• Green Fins: Download conservation tools from their website. Find a response toolkit for coral reef bleaching here and learn more about sustainable snorkelling practices here.

5. Support Sustainable Practices

Making informed choices can significantly impact marine health. Here are some tips:

• Choose Sustainable Seafood: Use resources like the Marine Conservation Society’s Good Fish Guide to make informed choices about seafood. Learn more.
• Reduce Plastic Use: Participate in local campaigns aimed at reducing single-use plastics, or simply bring your reusable bags and containers when shopping.
  

Getting Started

If you’re new to marine conservation, start small. Look for local events or community groups. Websites like VolunteerMatch can help you find opportunities near you. Every small action counts, whether it’s attending a clean-up or joining a local conservation group.

Resources

• Documentaries:
  • “Chasing Coral”
  • “My Octopus Teacher”
  • “Ocean Film Festival” – check screening dates here or watch online here
• Websites:
  • Ocean Conservancy
  • National Geographic
• Podcasts:
  • Seacreatures

If you are based in the UK, also check out this article which highlights even more ways to get involved (and really – if you’re based in UK – you’re never more than a couple of hours away from the ocean!) 5 Ways to Get Involved in Marine Science in the UK – WiseOceans

The post Dive Into Marine Restoration: How You Can Make a Difference! appeared first on Earthed.

The fashion industry is responsible for around 10% of global carbon emissions and is the second-largest consumer of the world’s water supply, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Each of us makes a conscious choice every day with what we wear, but how often do we consider the environmental impact of our wardrobe? Thankfully, DIRT Charity is making waves to address this pressing issue by driving systemic change with the introduction of regenerative standards in the fashion textiles industry.

On September 24, 2024, DIRT Charity, in collaboration with the Biodynamic Federation Demeter International (BFDI), launched the Demeter Textile Standards — a groundbreaking certification system designed to revolutionise how fashion is produced, processed, and disposed of. These standards cover ten key raw materials, including cotton, wool, silk, leather, and emerging alternatives like mushroom leather. The goal is to ensure every step of the supply chain positively impacts the environment, from sustainable farming practices to compostable end-of-life disposal.

Unlike existing certifications, the Demeter Textile Standards take a holistic approach. The standards certify that garments are produced in a way that enhances soil health, reduces water usage, eliminates toxic chemicals, and prioritizes fair treatment of workers. Each part of the garment, from the fabrics to the dyes and even the buttons, is held to strict environmental and social guidelines. The aim is to create a truly regenerative fashion industry that not only reduces its environmental footprint but actively restores ecosystems.

DIRT Charity’s founder, Arizona Muse, highlights the importance of this shift: “We recognize the urgent need for more sustainable practices in the fashion industry. By collaborating with Demeter, we are
paving the way for a more environmentally conscious and responsible approach to textile production. Now all we need from you, the consumers, is to demand the Demeter label on your clothes.”

As consumers, we have the power to demand change, and with the Demeter Textile Standards, we can choose garments that meet the highest environmental and ethical standards. By transforming the fashion supply chain, DIRT Charity is paving the way for fashion to become part of the solution, not the problem.

For more information on DIRT Charity’s collaboration with Demeter and the new textile standards, please visit www.dirt.charity/demeter-standards.

The post Leaps in Fashion: A New Standard in Sustainability appeared first on Earthed.

September is a crucial time to sow seeds if you want to make the most of the winter and early spring months. Preparing your garden for a bountiful winter harvest or planning a guerrilla gardening mission to bring neglected urban spaces to life can contribute to a healthier, more vibrant environment for both you and local wildlife.

We teamed up with our friends at Vital Seeds to explore the best seeds to plant this September across the UK and Northern Hemisphere. With their expert advice and high-quality seeds, you’ll be ready to make an impact. These seed suggestions are your go-to guide, so click the links below to shop seeds and start your gardening adventure.

Even as the days get shorter, many hardy flower varieties can be sown in September to provide a splash of colour come spring and summer. Here’s what we recommend for your guerrilla gardening project:

Calendula

Bright, bold, and easy to grow, Calendula is a great choice for both beginners and seasoned gardeners. Because of its vibrant brilliant orange and yellow blooms, it’s perfect for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. What’s more, it’s edible, with petals that can be used in salads, and it thrives in poor soil. Scatter the seeds in open, sunny areas, and watch them spread joy throughout your neighborhood.

California Poppy

This drought-tolerant flower is ideal for guerrilla gardeners looking to add a touch of the West Coast to their local streets. California poppies bring vivid orange blooms that are both resilient and easy to maintain, and they’re perfect for neglected spaces. Their low-maintenance beauty makes them a natural choice for brightening up roadside verges or forgotten corners of your town.

Cornflower

Cornflowers are a staple of any wildflower garden, offering striking blue petals that attract bees and other pollinators. Hardy and adaptable, they’ll thrive in rough, disturbed soils, making them ideal for guerrilla gardening projects. Plant them in abandoned lots or along railway tracks for a burst of color come spring.

Nigella

With its delicate, feathery foliage and sky-blue flowers, Nigella adds an ethereal touch to any guerrilla garden. Also known as “Love-in-a-Mist,” this plant is easy to grow, self-seeding, and thrives even in neglected areas. Scatter Nigella seeds in any sunny spot and prepare for beautiful blooms that look like they’re floating in a misty cloud.

Poppy Seeds

If you want to make a bold statement, you can’t go wrong with poppies. Known for their vibrant red petals, these flowers are a symbol of remembrance and resilience. Poppies grow well in poor soil and will come back year after year, making them a fantastic addition to any guerrilla gardening project. Sprinkle them in the cracks of city pavements or across vacant land and let their beauty do the talking.

Vegetable Seeds to Sow in September

September is also the perfect time to sow vegetables that will thrive through autumn and winter, but you might not know where to start. The crops recommended below can provide you with fresh produce in the colder months or be harvested in the early spring. Here’s what to plant:

Asian Greens

Fast-growing and packed with nutrients, Asian greens like pak choi, mustard greens, and mizuna are perfect for cooler weather. Sow them now, and you’ll enjoy a continuous supply of tender leaves for salads, stir-fries, and soups throughout autumn.

Broad Beans

Broad beans are a hardy crop that can be planted in September for an early harvest next spring. They tolerate the colder months well, making them ideal for overwintering. Plant them in well-drained soil, and they’ll reward you with a delicious, protein-rich harvest as the days begin to warm.

Lambs Lettuce

Also known as mache or corn salad, Lamb’s lettuce is a winter-hardy green that can be grown through the colder months. Its tender, nutty-flavored leaves are a wonderful addition to salads and grow well in containers or raised beds.

Lettuce

You can still sow certain varieties of lettuce in September to enjoy a fresh supply of leafy greens well into autumn. Opt for winter-hardy varieties like ‘Winter Gem’ or ‘Arctic King,’ which can withstand colder temperatures and keep your salad bowl full through the frosty months.

Peas

Peas can be sown in September for an early harvest next spring. Choose a winter-hardy variety and plant them in well-prepared soil. As they climb, peas will brighten up your garden or any vertical urban space, all while providing you with sweet, delicious pods in the spring.

Onions

September is the ideal time to plant onions for overwintering. Varieties like ‘Senshyu Yellow’ and ‘Radar’ can be sown now and will develop over the winter for a harvest next summer. Onions are resilient and easy to grow, making them perfect for guerrilla gardening in urban allotments or neglected plots.

Why Sow in September?

Sowing seeds in September is a strategic move. Many thrive when planted in the cooler months. The earlier you get them in the ground, the stronger and more resilient they’ll be. By planting now, you’re setting the stage for a flourishing, healthy ecosystem that supports pollinators and wildlife… while also creating a beautiful environment for people to enjoy!

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Earthed’s free video classes are taught by world nature leaders. They’ll help you create biodiverse gardens, thriving vegetable patches, and sustainable communities. With expert guidance and a community of fellow gardeners, you’ll have everything you need to grow and make a lasting impact.

Learn more and become a member at Earthed.co to start your journey.

The post Which Seeds to Sow in September appeared first on Earthed.

In a world where our populations are booming and cities are expanding, many of us find ourselves surrounded by concrete jungles with little access to nature. Amidst this urban sprawl, a powerful movement is emerging to reclaim and revitalise our green spaces. This grassroots effort transforms neglected areas into vibrant pockets of greenery, bringing together communities and promoting environmental stewardship. Not only does it have the potential to transform neglected space into beautiful spaces, but more often than not they directly impact air quality, build biodiversity, bring joy and community connection.

In this blog, we cover the basics of what guerrilla gardening is, but we also point you in the direction of some essential tools so you can become a guerrilla gardener yourself. Spoiler alert: in our newest (free) challenge with Ellen Miles, you can become a Guerrilla Gardener in 28-days!

What is Guerrilla Gardening?

Guerrilla gardening is a grassroots movement where individuals or groups cultivate plants in neglected, public, or private spaces. It’s an act of environmental activism, aiming to beautify urban areas, grow food, and reclaim unused land for the community, and is often undertaken without seeking permission from councils and governing bodies. Guerrilla gardeners might plant flowers, vegetables, or native species to improve the look and feel of neighbourhoods, build biodiversity, improve air quality and reconnect with nature. You could consider it to be a blend of gardening, art, and protest, transforming cities from grey to green.

The Modern History…

Guerrilla gardening isn’t a new phenomenon. Throughout history, people have taken it upon themselves to retain and restore nature in their surroundings. From ancient agricultural practices to medieval gleaning rights, communities have always sought ways to cultivate and protect their green spaces.

The contemporary guerrilla gardening movement began to take shape in the 1970s, particularly in New York City. The Green Guerrillas, founded by Liz Christy in 1973, transformed vacant lots into community gardens, sparking a global movement. This spirit of reclaiming urban spaces spread worldwide, inspiring similar efforts in cities across the globe.

1973, New York City: The Green Guerrillas start transforming derelict land into gardens, igniting a movement.
1996, London: Richard Reynolds begins guerrilla gardening in his local neighbourhood, eventually founding GuerrillaGardening.org, a global platform for activists.
2004, Los Angeles: Guerrilla gardening gains traction with activists targeting freeway medians and neglected public spaces.
2012, Cape Town: The Cape Town Green Guerrillas start turning abandoned spaces into urban farms and gardens.

Essential Resources…

Guerrilla gardening has inspired numerous projects and publications. Here are a few notable examples and resources:

“The Guerrilla Gardening Handbook” by Ellen Miles

Offers practical advice and inspiring stories from around the world. Ellen Miles, a prominent advocate for urban greening, has written several influential books on the subject. Her works provide invaluable insights and practical guidance.

GuerrillaGardening.org: Richard Reynolds’ website offers a wealth of information, from practical tips to global initiatives.

“Guerrilla Gardening: A Manualfesto” by David Tracey: A comprehensive guide on how to start your own guerrilla gardening project.

National Park City: Learn about a grassroots movement for everyone making our city greener, healthier and wilder.

Learn to Become a Guerrilla Gardener in 28-Days, with Earthed’s Guerrilla Gardening Challenge

We at Earthed are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our Guerrilla Gardening Challenge, in collaboration with the wonderful Ellen Miles. This practical course is hosted online, with 5 live check ins with Ellen and the Earthed team. By the end of the challenge, you will have transformed a neglected corner of your neighbourhood. This live course inspires people and communities to reclaim and transform the neglected corners of their communities, which can have a positive impact on mental and physical health, as well as build positive relationships. Stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved in Earthed’s guerrilla gardening challenge for free!

Guerrilla gardening is more than just planting seeds; it’s about sowing the seeds of change. Join us in this green revolution and help cultivate a more sustainable, beautiful world.

The post What Is Guerrilla Gardening? A Concise Guide. appeared first on Earthed.

When a plant produces seed, it does so in abundance. If you have ever harvested the bullet like seeds from a kale plant or found a bed of self-seeded calendula flowers pop up like unannounced orange fireworks from the soil, you will know that nature gives more seeds than she needs. 

By design, people are meant to share seeds. Carried on the wind, stuck to the underbelly of a beast, passed from one community to another. Once you have started saving seeds, it’s practically impossible to keep them to yourself. To leave them packaged up in a personal stash feels wrong on some deep unspeakable level.

The Importance of Seed Saving

If we turn to the story of how humans have coevolved with our food crops, we will see that the vegetables and grains that exist in the world today are only here because of humans. Different to wild plants, cultivated crops have a history woven so deep into the story of human culture that it is impossible to unpick the characters. For many hundreds and thousands of years, seed saving closed the loop of the farming cycle. People grew crops, made selections for the traits they most desired, and saved seeds to start the process again the following year. Because each community grew and shared seeds in each region, the fields of the world were a patchwork of different crops. Each suited to the soils they grew in and the taste buds of the people eating them.

In the last century, people dropped the stitch that holds together this intricate tapestry of coevolution. 75% of the world’s crop diversity has been lost in the last 100 years. As our food systems have fast become industrialised, so to have our seed systems. It can be shocking to think about how quickly the skills of seed saving have disappeared from farms in such a short period of time. Just four corporations own 60% of the worlds seeds. A couple of generations ago it was normal to save locally adapted seed. People quickly ripped out this page in the story of farming. They replaced it with the idea that seed companies should centrally produce our seeds.

Seed Sovereignty

We could dwell on what we have lost. Or we could turn our attention to the sudden and hopeful germination of Seed Sovereignty. A movement pushing to reweave crop diversity back into our story. In 2017, the Seed Sovereignty Programme started working to build a more resilient seed system in the UK and Ireland. For seven years we have been standing with growers, farmers and seed activists. Facilitating seed production trainings, network building and local seed revival projects. Having trained 1,497 growers in seed production skills since 2020, we have seen a surge in seed diversity. With 105 new growers producing 322 new vegetable varieties and 18 new grain varieties commercially. In the same timeframe, we have supported 167 new community growers to produce 337 new vegetable and 88 new grain varieties in the UK and Ireland.  

What is clear is that when we teach growers to produce seed, they naturally go on to build seed sharing networks. By training farmers in foundational seed saving skills and then supporting those farmers to connect with one another, we are creating the conditions for so much more to emerge. Over the last few years, there has been an upsurge of new community seed groups. Spreading across the UK, the likes of Glasgow Seed Library, Perthshire Seed Library, Incredible Edible Seed Library (South Wales), Seeds of Hope (Bradford) and Sow Northern mobile seed library are swelling the already plentiful ranks of grassroots seed networks. Where there are people saving seeds, there are people sharing seeds across their communities. 

Seeds have memory

In more scientific terms, this memory is in the seed’s genetics. To have crops which thrive in our local regions, the seeds we are starting with need to contain a broad genetic foundation. Giving them the ability to thrive in the conditions our local climate might throw at them. Farmers in the UK import a large percentage of the seed grown from countries with vastly different climates to theirs. Many of these crop varieties just don’t have the genetic know how to flourish in specific bioregions different to the ones they have come from. Seeds produced in the favourable sunny conditions of Southern Spain will find it quite shocking to suddenly grow in the heavy damp clay soils of West Wales. When it comes to building a resilient seed system, it’s not a ‘one size fits all’ scenario. We need to be producing the seeds we need in the regions we want them to grow in.

The Wales Seed Hub

Leaning into this principle, I have been working alongside a group of fledgling seed producers to create a seed selling cooperative, the Wales Seed Hub. Running across multiple farms and smallholdings in Wales. Each grower is producing several seed crops for sale through the collective catalogue. In their fourth year selling seeds via their online shop, the Wales Seed Hub have gone from providing 2 new varieties for sale in 2020, to 40 new varieties for sale in 2024. In light of the huge decline in seed diversity over the last 100 years, bringing 40 new varieties back into Welsh circulation is far from insignificant. Imperatively, people grow all of these varieties in Wales. Therefore, they are already adapting to the growing conditions of the Western UK. Unlike seeds purchased from large seed companies, often grown in Spain or China, gardeners buying from the Wales Seed Hub get seeds grown in soils more appropriate and closer to home.

The Wales Seed Hub model is radical. Rather than operate as a centralised seed company, this cooperative focuses on decentralised seed growing. Each grower is responsible for tending their own crops. As well as harvesting and packaging their seeds into beautifully designed seed packets, the growers choose the varieties best suited to their soils and keep their own records. Once the seeds are off the plant, the collective takes responsibility for getting them out into the world. Marketing and promotion are done together. Quality control is a shared responsibility. The group operate one online shop and have one distribution point. Cooperation on this scale makes business sense. Wales Seed Hub members share jobs, giving growers more time to be in the fields producing precious seeds.

The Benefits of Cooperation

The benefits reach further and deeper than this. With all the Wales Seed Hub members having recently undergone training in seed production. They are able to pool their knowledge and share their learning as they move along the road to being professional seed sellers. Monthly meetings and regular communication allow growers to update one another on their crop progress and ask important cultivation questions of the collective. The coop has developed strict quality guidelines, offering each new member guidance on complex topics. These include isolation distances, population sizes and germination test rates. This kind of peer-to-peer learning model is what can really support the seed knowledge in this group grow to new heights. No longer reliant on top-down learning, the members of the Wales Seed Hub are advancing their seed growing skills as a flock.

Working Cooperatively

We can dig deeper still, to the root of why seed production is so suited to cooperative working. The plants themselves require us to cooperate. If you know anything about seed saving, you will know that in order to produce ‘true to type’ seed crops, you need to isolate plants from pollinating with any other varieties of the same species. This means that if you want to produce a kale seed crop, you must ensure your flowering kale is at least one mile from any other flowering Brassica of the same species (or encase the crop in an isolation cage). It is very difficult for a grower to produce more than one seed crop of each cross-pollinating species per year. What works far better is to work together, spreading crops across different pieces of land.

Crucially, once seeds have been grown in a patchwork, they need us bring them back together and spread them far and wide. We are the disseminators of food crop seeds and the cultivators of seed diversity. One kale seed crop has limited benefit to one grower, but distributing this kale amongst many farms in the same bioregion has an infinitely bigger impact. Seeds require isolated growing and collective sharing. It would seem that it is impossible to grow seeds without cooperation. 

Decentralisation for Diverse Seeds

The Wales Seed Hub are demonstrating a decentralised seed model that can be replicated across the UK and Ireland. The Seed Sovereignty Programme are already working with groups in Northern England, Scotland and the South West of England. Helping them to create their own regional seed hubs. The beauty of working with seed diversity is that while the organising model can be the same, the seeds cultivated in those different regions will be beautifully bespoke to those conditions and human cultures.  

And just like that, diverse seeds are finding their way back into our fields and gardens. Working together with humans, these seeds are finding pockets of people to grow them and circulate them. Despite the efforts of an industrialised seed system to control genetic diversity and move seeds away from common ownership, the seeds cannot be contained. Just as seeds are meant to be grown, they are meant to be shared. As seed diversity slowly takes back ground in an undercurrent across the UK and Ireland, groups of people working in cooperation are flowering around them. 

If you would like to learn more about seed saving then watch our Earthed course “Saving Seeds for a Better Future” with Will Bonsall.

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