Ep 6: Making Places, Creating Belonging: Intergeneration nature restoration with Action for Conservation

If I Ruled the World by Gillian Burke

Today, we delve into the inspiring world of conservation and intergenerational learning. In this episode, we are joined by Hendrikus van Hensbergen and Hannibal Rhoades, affectionately known as 'Driky' and 'Hal'. Together, they share insights from their work with Action for Conservation (AFC) and the transformative Penpont project, a far-reaching nature restoration effort set in a 2,000-acre Welsh estate in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.

Key Takeaways:

1. Action for Conservation - The Early Days:
   • Hendrikus van Hensbergen's founding of AFC, initially a youth-focused charity.
   • The evolution of AFC to encompass broader conservation goals.
2. The Penpont Project Explained:
   • A detailed look at the Penpont project, its aims, and activities.
   • Understanding the project's intergenerational and ecological approach.
3. Cultural and Historical Layers:
   • Exploring the cultural, historical, natural history, and farming aspects integrated into the project.
   • Discussions on identity, indigenous culture, and colonisation.
4. Youth Engagement in Conservation:
   • The significance of involving young people in nature restoration and regeneration.
   • The role of underrepresented perspectives in shaping conservation efforts.
5. Intergenerational Learning and Outdoor Education:
   • The importance of intergenerational learning in environmental stewardship.
   • The impact of outdoor education in fostering a deeper connection to nature.
6. Challenges and Opportunities:
   • Addressing the invisible barriers to change in conservation.
   • Reflections on the potential and challenges faced by environmental charities.

Follow the show:

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Connect with our guests:

• Action for Conservation: https://www.actionforconservation.org/
• Driky: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hendrikus-van-hensbergen-a6a2ba37/
• Penpont Project: https://www.actionforconservation.org/penpont

Follow Gillian

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillians_voice/

Website: https://www.gillianburkevoice.com/

Shout outs and mentions:

• Robert Macfarlane
• David Olusoga
• Laura Martin

Soundscape from Lake Erie, Ohio, USA

What would you do if you ruled the world?

If you have any insights or feedback on today’s episode or you have an idea for how the world could be a better place, drop me an email on [e-mail]

A final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen.

Produced by Soundquake

Edited by Jake-Lee Savage