Cllr Paul Donovan discusses the importance of rewilding

There have been the big projects, like Knepp in Sussex - an early convert to the process.

The rewilding on farmland at Knepp began in the early noughties.

The farmland was allowed to go wild, with fascinating results, including, soil restoration, flood mitigation, air purification and carbon sequestration.

Wildlife successes include the increase in the number of nightingales and turtledoves. Numerous butterflies, including the purple emperor, are present as well as a multiplying bat population. 

In other areas, species like the beaver have been reintroduced, helping counter flooding with heavier rainfalls.

Cllr Paul Donovan encourages rewilding

At a more local level, there have been grow zones in Redbridge. 

These are areas where the land has been just left alone to go wild or rewild. 

There are grow zones on George and Christchurch Greens plus the Roding Valley. The flourishing grasses and wildflowers are a sight to behold. 

There are also some lovely areas in Newham, such as coming down from the cycledrome in the Olympic Park to the River Lea. Here there are fabulous combinations of wild grasses and poppies. 

These areas improve biodiversity as well as helping to reduce carbon, thereby addressing climate change.

They also provide a magnificent uplifting sight for those passing by.

It is important though to communicate what is going on to the wider population. 

Those not in the know can assume it is the council just not cutting the grass. Well, that is true but it is left deliberately, on purpose, for all the earlier reasons stated - not because they can't be bothered or cannot afford to do the task.

Local authorities need to communicate what is going on. 

Around the country, it is not unusual to see outcries against good rewilding practices.

It has been the desire of human beings to dominate and exploit, rather than work with nature that has brought the biodiversity and climate crisis.

There needs to be more rewilding across the country, in public and private spaces. 

Take up some of that concrete and let the earth breathe.

There are encouraging developments but more can always be done, individually and as part of the community. But communication about what is going on is also a key part of the process.

• Paul Donovan is Labour councillor for Wanstead Village ward, Redbridge Council and a blogger (paulfdonovan.blogspot.com).