The destruction of a wildlife habitat and dozens of trees sparked outrage in an English town.
What's happening?
A group of environmental vandals in June ruined a badger sett and cut down or damaged more than 50 trees at Newbold Comyn in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, the BBC reported. In late July, safety work was set to begin at the park after the creation of cycling trails in the woodland.
A forestry team inspected the area, police opened an investigation, and the site was being monitored to prevent further harm.
The sett was dug out and the soil from the two-meter (seven-foot) hole was used to create jumps. The outlet previously reported that a spokesperson called it "possibly the single worst report of illegal sett destruction that the team have attended."
"This wanton destruction of woodland, which is home to many habitats and species, is ecological vandalism," Councillor Will Roberts said. "The council strongly condemns any activity like this which can cause serious harm to these habitats and the public."
Why is this important?
The BBC reported that the vandalism happened near designated bike trails. The trees were felled, branches were lopped off, and bark was carved up.
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"It's totally unnecessary for this to have happened considering the amazing facilities that are available on the Comyn for riders to enjoy," the spokesperson said. "We fully appreciate that the majority of trail riders will be equally disgusted by this incident and it doesn't represent the community that enjoys the Comyn."
Senseless vandalism similar to this is not uncommon, as a nearly identical incident happened in Queens, New York, causing at least $15,000 in damage. Elsewhere in England, there was "a tree massacre," and Ireland experienced the same at a popular park.
Such acts cost municipalities and residents money and also harm environments and the wildlife that live there. Trees are particularly helpful in our warming world, providing shade, of course, but also preventing flooding and reducing pollution.
What's being done about the felling of trees?
Witnesses to the destruction of natural spaces can call the police, as can those with other information, while having conversations with your friends and family can help create a web of education about climate-related issues.
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Planting trees and taking small steps such as swapping out turf grass for native plants in your yard or eating less meat can also ensure a sustainable future by decreasing the damage humans do to the world by consuming dirty energy sources such as gas and coal.
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