In the past few years, we have seen a completely unexpected  global health crisis, and this has compelled most of us to re-evaluate what is truly important in our lives. More adults than ever before reported taking part in some form of outdoor recreation, a large number of people became first-time gardeners, and National Parks were flooded with visitors upon reopening. These are all clear signs that for so many, nature is an intrinsic true love, one of the things that we humans value most. Beyond the clean air and open spaces, the opportunity to grow our own healthy foods, and the awe-inspiring landscapes that give us respite from our daily routines , nature can help us solve other major challenges that society is facing today including a growing mental health crisis and climate change. 

Involving our youth in gardening has immense value : helps develop social skills, enhances the school curricula, brings families together, and creates an awareness of the link between nature and our food, clothing and shelter, ultimately doing justice to the planet. 

Allowing young people to immerse themselves in nature-based education is not just important, but should be commonplace in all learning environments. It just makes the most common-sense!

We strongly encourage all adults to explore ways that community support for youth gardening can promote cultural understanding and accessibility, physical and emotional health, and career and business development for the next generation.