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It was incredibly rewarding to know our small efforts are helping protect the future of the woodland and its wildlifeDr Janet Horrocks | Abertay University | Lecturer in Academic Practice
Volunteering at Dronley was a brilliant way to connect with nature and give back to a community-led project making a real environmental impact.Nicola Brown | Abertay University | Head of Abertay Online Programmes
Janet Horrocks, a lecturer in Academic Practice and Nicola Brown, Head of Abertay Online Programmes are both part of the Abertay Learning Enhancement (AbLE) Academy. The pair spent their volunteering day at Dronley Community Woodland.
The Woodland, which is a habitat for diverse range of wildlife, spans around 50 hectares and is preserved through sustainable practices that protect the ecosystem and combat climate change.
Working alongside Lizzie, another Dronley volunteer, they spent their day focused on upgrading tree guards, protecting over 200 young trees from deer and rabbits, an essential task for ensuring the health and growth of the woodland.
This volunteering effort directly supports several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
Goal 13: Climate Action - By maintaining and protecting the woodland, Janet and Nicola contributed to climate change mitigation efforts.
Goal 15: Life on Land - Their work helps preserve terrestrial ecosystems, protecting biodiversity and preventing land degradation.
Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals - Their collaboration with Dronley Community Woodland exemplifies how partnerships can enhance sustainable development efforts.
Janet said:
Spending the day out at Dronley reminded me how important it is to get stuck in and support the spaces that do so much for our environment. It was incredibly rewarding to know our small efforts are helping protect the future of the woodland and its wildlife.
Nicola added:
It was great to work with the local volunteers and learn more about the area. We came away feeling like we’d made a real contribution – and with a new appreciation for how much work goes into maintaining these natural spaces.
Janet and Nicola’s work at Dronley Community Woodland underlines how our staff’s volunteering efforts can make a tangible difference in our local environment and community, showcasing Abertay’s commitment to sustainable development and addressing climate change.
Find out more about the Staff Volunteering Day scheme on the intranet.
