The primary objective of our project is to enhance the abundance of wildlife in churchyards within the Durham area. While we currently focus on local initiatives, we have plans to expand our efforts to encompass the broader Durham Church of England ministry. Recently, we are exploring the possibility of extending our project to include Catholic churches. The rationale behind this expansion lies in our aspiration to transform churchyards into thriving paradises for wildlife.

Our initiative aligns with the Eco Church scheme, a program managed by Rocha UK, a Christian charity dedicated to empowering churches and Christians in environmental stewardship. The overarching mission is rooted in the comprehensive redeeming work of God, with the specific focus on the fifth mark: ‘To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth.’ The council has mandated all local churches to assess their effectiveness in adhering to the five marks.

Various organizations recognize the significance of churchyards in promoting biodiversity. The Wildlife Trust emphasizes their role as ideal havens for wildlife, where birds nest and feed, wildflowers thrive, and historic trees contribute to the town or village’s character. The British Lichen Society underscores churchyards’ vital role in lichen conservation, particularly in areas lacking natural outcrops of rock.

Moreover, there is a growing acknowledgment of the mental health benefits associated with green spaces. The NHS attests that green spaces contribute positively to mental health, with individuals spending at least two hours a week in nature reporting better overall health and psychological wellbeing. The government’s Greening Government Commitments reinforce the importance of nature recovery, creating space for thriving plants and wildlife.

In alignment with these perspectives, the World Health Organization emphasizes the positive impact of urban green spaces, such as parks, playgrounds, and residential greenery, on both mental and physical health. As we strive to achieve our project’s objectives, we are guided by a collective commitment to environmental sustainability and the well-being of both nature and humanity.