This week is LSE Student Volunteering Week. The overarching theme for the whole week is ‘inclusion’, with each day holding events centred around a sub-theme. Tuesday is being led by Helen Bourne (BSc International Social and Public Policy), who has chosen to focus her events around the environment. In this blog post, she reflects on why she chose to invite The National Park Foundation onto campus, and how you can get involved.
The National Park City Foundation is an international charity with a mission to create greener, healthier and wilder cities. As part of LSE Volunteer Week and LSESU Green fortnight, a Q&A session with the National Park City Foundation will take place on 7th March from 16.00-17.30. The event will offer a unique opportunity to learn about the Foundation’s work. Students will have the chance to ask questions, share ideas and hear first-hand about efforts to promote green urbanisation, sustainable development and biodiversity in London and in other cities across the world. There will be opportunities to become leaders for London National Park City, and to gain valuable experience in promoting green spaces, sustainable development, and a better future for London.
“Making London a National Park City brings opportunities to engage Londoners to create a common vision of the environmental, social and economic benefits of London’s green infrastructure” (London Environment Strategy)
The National Park City movement began with a simple idea in 2013; how might we think differently about the way we live in our cities if we apply the principles and purpose of National Parks to urban areas. In July 2019, this became a reality when the Mayor of London signed the Charter making London the first National Park City. The National Park City Foundation is steward of a global movement supporting other cities around the world on their journey towards becoming National Park Cities. The aim of the Foundation is to improve our life in cities globally. More green space adds value to transport routes, local economies and children’s development. Nature helps manage the climate, reduces pollution and addresses many physical and mental health issues. The National Park City Foundation empowers communities to create a vision for a whole city, encouraging nature to thrive within our urban landscapes, and ultimately creating positive social, economic and environmental impact for all.
Don’t miss this exclusive National Park City event at LSE! Booking is required
If Helen has inspired you to volunteer, check out one of our other ongoing opportunities or book a one-to-one with David Coles, the Volunteer Centre Manager if you have more questions. And why not follow us on Twitter, and Instagram to stay up-to-date with our events and opportunities and read our blog for more volunteering tips and stories.
