We all know that getting out in nature is good for us. Whether wandering through a forest,
strolling along the coast or watching birds on a lake, time in the great outdoors has been shown to
benefit both body and mind. Studies suggest that contact with nature can help reduce stress and
anxiety, lower blood pressure and even cut the risk of heart disease. Yet despite its proven power,
nature often gets squeezed out of busy modern lives.
A new, free mobile app called Wildling hopes to change that, helping people discover and explore
wild spaces on their doorstep or while travelling. Created by entrepreneur Ant Rawlins, Wildling
brings together the UK’s wild spaces and hidden green spots in one digital map. The aim is to make nature more accessible while encouraging people to feel part of their local environment. It also hopes to address two of the UK’s biggest challenges: the growing mental health crisis and the
urgent need to care for the natural world.
The app is supported by leading conservation groups, including the RSPB (Royal Society for the
Protection of Birds), the Marine Conservation Society and Forestry England. It is also backed by
advisors and environmentalists such as Dragon’s Den investor Deborah Meaden, financier Ben
Goldsmith and Eden Project founder Tim Smit.
