Communities in Nature was a programme that we supported from 2010 to 2015 and was led by the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI). The programme was about redefining the role of botanic gardens and putting people at the heart of their mission. We set out to test whether gardens could embrace their social role by working with more diverse local communities, to help educate and reconnect people with the world of plants, as well as showcase models for sustainable living.

Through the programme, we have supported and evaluated pilot projects in six UK botanic gardens. Today we are publishing an evaluation report: ‘How can botanic gardens grow their social role? Lessons from the Communities in Nature programme’ as a celebration of the achievements of the gardens and communities involved in Communities in Nature.

We encourage you to read this report to learn about the positive impact of an initiative that we hope will thrive beyond our support.