Mon. Dec 23rd, 2024

30 Days Wild – UK’s most creative nature challenge celebrates tenth anniversary in June

Children enjoying rockpooling in Falmouth, Cornwall, England, UK. All model released. Photographed in summer (July).
Children enjoying rockpooling in Falmouth, Cornwall, England, UK. All model released. Photographed in summer (July).

Millions of participants benefit from countless acts of wildness over past decade

This year marks a milestone for The Wildlife Trusts’ flagship annual 30 Days Wild as it celebrates its 10th anniversary in June. The nature challenge has grown from 12,000 participants in its first year to over half a million last year alone. 30 Days Wild has helped people to get outside, enjoy and connect with nature as part of their every-day lives.

This June promises to be a bumper 30 Days Wild – people of all ages and abilities are urged to participate and The Wildlife Trusts are offering free herb seeds and inspirational guide to everyone who signs-up to do a small, wild thing every day during June.

Iolo Williams, wildlife presenter and  Vice President, The Wildlife Trusts, says:

 “Embrace the outdoors with The Wildlife Trusts’ 30 Days Wild challenge! Imagine a month dedicated to exploring the wonders of nature, from the majestic red kites soaring above to the humble bees buzzing in our gardens. Let’s make every day an adventure, be it birdwatching with a slice of bara brith in hand or planting wildflowers to support our native wildlife. This June, step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and go WILD!”

Supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, 30 Days Wild encourages individuals, families, schools, and businesses to connect with nature on a daily basis during what many argue is the best month for wildlife spotting. It could be going on a snail safari, eating your breakfast outdoors or closing your eyes to listen for bird song, to more adventurous endeavours such as outdoor yoga or forest bathing. This year’s participants will receive a special 10th anniversary pack, designed to make their 30 days even more fun.

Research has consistently highlighted the positive impact of nature on well-being. A study found a significant increase in people’s health, happiness, and connection to nature through participating in 30 Days Wild. People reported feeling more relaxed, reduced stress levels, and a greater motivation to protect wildlife which lasted long after the campaign ended.

Register your interest to be the first to hear when sign up opens to receive your free 30 Days Wild pack and embark on a journey that promises not just a month, but a lifetime, of wildness! Visit wildlifetrusts.org/30DaysWild.

If you're thinking of buying something recommended by us, please go via the links on our pages. When you do this we may earn a fee which supports our editorially independent, family business.

By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.

Read next