Mersey Reporter - #Merseybites #News

LYNDON Howson, a leading conservation advocate and influential youth leader, recently delivered a compelling presentation at the Hedgehog Friendly Campus Conference Series 2024. The conference, held earlier this month, focused on the critical role of young people in wildlife advocacy and conservation efforts.

During his presentation, Howson emphasised the importance of empowering young people to take proactive steps in wildlife conservation. His talk, titled:- "How Young People Can Start Their Own Wildlife Advocacy Journey" highlighted the impact that passionate individuals can have on protecting wildlife and natural habitats. He drew from his own experiences and challenges, providing practical advice and strategies for attendees looking to start their own conservation initiatives.

As the Project Coordinator for the Hedgehog Friendly Campus project at the University of Chester, Lyndon has played a pivotal role in creating a welcoming environment for hedgehogs on campus. Under his leadership, the University has reduced threats to hedgehogs and raised awareness among students about the importance of conservation. His efforts have helped the University become a flagship for the Hedgehog Friendly Campus initiative, which engages over 100 student volunteers and works in collaboration with local community groups and Schools to transform campuses into safe havens for wildlife.

Howson's involvement in conservation began at a young age and expanded significantly during his tenure as a former town councillor for Grange Over-Sands where he supported various conservation and sustainable initiatives. Through these roles, he gained valuable experience in addressing local environmental issues and understanding the challenges and opportunities in wildlife advocacy. His time as a town councillor allowed him to develop a deep understanding of the complexities of community collaboration, strategic planning, and leadership required to drive impactful conservation efforts. These experiences have equipped him with valuable insights into the importance of engaging with local communities, fostering partnerships, and leveraging resources to implement effective conservation strategies.

At the Hedgehog Friendly Campus Conference, Howson shared these experiences and insights, providing attendees with a roadmap for initiating their own projects and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among peers. He emphasised the power of collective action, encouraging young people to leverage their enthusiasm and creativity to make meaningful contributions to conservation efforts.

Howson commented:- "Young people's involvement is not just beneficial; it's essential for the future of our environment. They have the energy, creativity, and passion needed to lead initiatives protecting wildlife and supporting sustainable practices. The Hedgehog Friendly Campus project is a testament to what can be achieved when we empower the next generation of conservationists."

Under Howson's guidance, the Hedgehog Friendly Campus project has improved habitat conditions for hedgehogs and fostered a sense of stewardship among students. Howson has been instrumental in organising events, workshops, and campaigns to engage the campus community in conservation activities. His leadership has also inspired other institutions to adopt similar programmes.

Jo Wilkinson, senior project manager at Hedgehog Friendly Campus, said:- "Lyndon is the University of Chester's student hedgehog champion for Hedgehog Friendly Campus, a programme funded by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society. Lyndon has not only implemented the programme brilliantly but has also significantly expanded its reach and impact. Under his leadership, the project has seen remarkable growth, with the number of volunteers nearly tripling in the past year. Lyndon's passion and commitment to empowering the next generation of environmental leaders have been instrumental in fostering a culture of conservation on campus and beyond. Lyndon's dedication to youth advocacy and environmental stewardship has left an indelible mark on the programme."

Howson's commitment to conservation extends beyond his University role. He has collaborated with various organisations, sharing his expertise in wildlife protection, community engagement, and environmental education. Outside the University of Chester, he has actively participated in running hedgehog awareness workshops at the EUREKA Science and Discovery Centre, engaging the public in understanding the importance of hedgehog conservation and how individuals can contribute to their protection. He has also delivered presentations and workshops for delegates at the HOBY Youth Leadership Summit, where he shared his insights on leadership and the critical role young people play in driving positive environmental change. Howson's vision is to create a world where young people are actively engaged in conservation efforts and where wildlife thrives alongside human development. By leveraging his experiences and partnerships, he aims to foster a culture of environmental responsibility and empowerment.
across communities and generations.