Latest News

What is a Nature Block?

Welcome to the world of Nature Blocks^TM, where every action you take can significantly impact the environment. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the basics of a Nature Block, why you should build one, how to get started, what’s next on your journey, and who can join this exciting endeavour.

A Nature Block is a community-driven initiative that transforms your backyard, balcony, or workplace into a haven for native species. It’s about turning our concrete jungles or forgotten gardens into lush, vibrant ecosystems. Picture a block of land, a rooftop, or even a balcony overflowing with thriving native plants, flowers, and wildlife. Nature Blocks are about rekindling our connection with nature right in the heart of our cities and our homes.

What does a Nature Block do?

A nature block is a habitat for our local wildlife. Because habitat loss, pollution, and climate change is threatening as many as 370 species living in our Australian cities, and we have the power to do something about it.

We can make a difference right now, in our own backyard or balcony. By creating a Nature Block, each one of us can give back some of the much-needed habitats for these threatened species, and as an added bonus, we will feel better, too, as we connect to nature.

Creating habitats for wildlife is not complicated and can be as simple as planting a few natives in a pot and adding some simple habitat elements such as a water source and some shelter elements like rocks, sticks and mulch.

We made it very easy for all of you to take part in the Nature Block movement by defining a Nature block as 4 plants plus 1 simple habitat element – like a dish of water for thirsty visiting animals.

While this might not seem like much, imagine if everyone in Australia created a Nature Block. We’d see a revitalised and thriving environment of Australian native plants and animals. This is the power of individual action to create meaningful collective impact!

Building a Nature Block empowers you to be a steward of the environment. It’s a way to contribute to biodiversity, clean the air, and create a sustainable future. Every seed planted, every flower grown, and every bird attracted makes a positive impact on the world. Your actions, no matter how small, can have a ripple effect, inspiring others to join the cause.

 

 

 

Why start a Nature Block?

 

1. Protect Endangered Species in Your City

Did you know that human actions have put approximately 370 species at risk in our Australian cities? Habitat loss, pollution, and climate change have taken their toll. However, you can make a difference right in your own backyard or balcony. Creating a Nature Block provides much-needed habitat and becomes a biodiversity hotspot for these threatened species.

2. Enhance Your Health and Well-being

Nature has a profound impact on our physical and mental well-being. Studies have shown that spending time in nature improves physical health, helps with allergies and cardiovascular problems, and boosts our immune system. By creating a Nature Block, you assist the little critters around you and improve your health in the process.

3. Contribute to the National 30/30 Effort

Australia has committed to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), joining 187 other countries in this global endeavour. The GBF aims to restore at least 30% (30/30) of degraded terrestrial, inland water, marine, and coastal ecosystems by 2030. Restoring biodiversity in your backyard or balcony directly contributes to this national effort and helps enhance biodiversity, ecosystem services, ecological integrity, and connectivity.

4. Help Cool Your City

Urban areas often suffer from higher temperatures compared to rural and suburban regions. The replacement of vegetation with heat-absorbing surfaces like pavement and buildings is a significant factor. However, you can play a crucial role in cooling your city by adding a Nature Block to your backyard or balcony habitat. Let nature’s cooling effect bring relief to your surroundings.

5. Contribute to Flood Mitigation

Vegetation plays a vital role in the natural water cycle and can slow down the flow of water into our waterways after heavy rainfall. By re-naturing your own backyard or balcony, you actively contribute to mitigating the impact of future flooding events. Let nature be your ally in creating a more resilient environment.

6. Style Your Space with Nature’s Beauty

Plants have the remarkable ability to bring life, colour, and vibrancy to any space. Not only will you contribute to the restoration of biodiversity, but you’ll also transform your place into a beautiful and relaxing haven. Let nature’s aesthetic touch enhance your surroundings and create a tranquil atmosphere.

7. Join a Thriving Community

Creating a Nature Block means joining a national movement and becoming part of the Conservation Volunteers Australia community. By embarking on this journey, you’ll forge new connections, make friendships, and be part of something bigger than yourself. Together, we can restore and protect Australian nature, one block at a time.

 

 

How to Get Started

Getting started is easy! Simply download the CVA Community Hub app, your gateway to the Nature Blocks community. It’s where you’ll find a wealth of resources, connect with like-minded individuals, and track your progress.

 

1. Search for “CVA Community Hub” on your app store
2. Download and install the app
3. Create an account
4. Now, you’re all set to explore the world of Nature Blocks!

 

What’s Next?

Once you’ve created your account, you’ll discover a user-friendly interface designed to guide you on your Nature Blocks journey. First, answer a few questions to personalise your journey. The app provides step-by-step instructions, educational materials, and a supportive community eager to help you along the way.

 

 

 

Who Can Build a Nature Block?

The beauty of Nature Blocks is that anyone can join the movement. It doesn’t matter if you have a vast backyard or a tiny balcony; whether you are an experienced gardener or have never planted a plant before. Whether you’re an individual, a family, a school, or a business, you can build a Nature Block. It’s all about inclusivity and coming together to create a greener, more sustainable world.

Building a Nature Block benefits both nature and people. It’s a win-win scenario where every action, no matter how small, contributes to a brighter, greener future. So, what are you waiting for? Download the CVA Community Hub app, create your account, and embark on your Nature Blocks journey today. Together, we can make a world of difference.

 

DOWNLOAD THE CVA COMMUNITY HUB APP

 

 

Questions? Please reach out to [email protected]