In this episode of the Biodiversity Podcast, the panel discusses the Local Nature Recovery Strategy for London, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, human connection to nature, and the need for measurable targets in biodiversity efforts. They explore the challenges of data collection, particularly regarding urban gardens, and highlight the psychological benefits of nature connection. The conversation also touches on the significance of visualizing a nature-recovered city and the potential for incremental changes to lead to significant improvements in urban biodiversity. This conversation explores the multifaceted relationship between nature, community, and economic benefits. The speakers discuss the importance of integrating nature into public health, the need for sustainable funding models, and the role of storytelling in fostering a connection to nature. They emphasize the necessity of collaborative networks and participatory strategies to enhance community engagement and support for green spaces. The dialogue culminates in a call to reframe nature as essential infrastructure, advocating for a shift in consciousness towards a more inclusive and connected approach to environmental stewardship.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Local Nature Recovery Strategy01:05 Understanding the Nature Recovery Strategy04:46 The Role of Community Engagement08:45 Human Connection to Nature12:36 Challenges in Data and Measurement18:04 The Importance of Gardens in Biodiversity21:54 Engaging the Public in Nature Recovery26:15 The Psychological Impact of Nature Connection29:56 Visualizing a Nature-Recovered London33:43 Incremental Change and Protopian Futures39:43 Celebrating Nature Recovery Initiatives50:11 The Economic Argument for Nature53:32 Sustaining Green Spaces through Community Engagement56:31 Storytelling and Communication in Nature Connection01:02:10 Building Collaborative Networks for Nature Recovery01:07:43 The Role of Community in Nature Connection01:11:41 Funding and Support for Community Initiatives01:17:20 Reframing Nature as Infrastructure01:32:01 Creating a Participatory Nature Recovery Strategy