Emirates and Wimbledon Mark One Year of Championing Nature Programme

Championing Nature Programme Reports Impact Across UK Communities

The All England Lawn Tennis Club has released its Championing Nature One-Year Report, highlighting the programme’s impact since its launch in May 2025 and marking its first anniversary with a special event at Wimbledon.

According to the report, 28,539 people participated in 865 sessions and activities delivered through the programme during its first year. The findings show that 93% of participants reported feeling inspired to take action for nature, while 91% reported greater confidence that individual actions can contribute to positive environmental change.

To mark the milestone, the All England Club hosted the “Championing Nature: Game. Set. Grow” anniversary event at Wimbledon, bringing together young participants, conservation organisations and programme partners.

Representatives from London Wildlife Trust, Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust, Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside Wildlife Trust, and Northumberland Wildlife Trust joined supporters from the All England Club and Emirates to celebrate the programme’s achievements and discuss future plans.

The event was hosted by climate presenter Abbie Dewhurst and included a keynote address from naturalist and broadcaster Steve Backshall, who serves as a Championing Nature Ambassador.

Speaking at the event, Backshall highlighted the importance of helping young people engage with the natural environment and become active participants in conservation efforts within their communities.

Supporting Nature Engagement

Championing Nature is a multi-year initiative delivered through four Wildlife Trusts across London, Birmingham, Manchester and Newcastle. The programme supports projects that help children, young people and families in underserved communities access green spaces and build stronger connections with nature.

The initiative is funded through the partnership between the All England Club and Emirates and focuses on environmental education, community engagement and outdoor learning opportunities.

A key feature of the anniversary event was the opportunity for young participants to share their experiences, discussing how involvement in the programme has influenced their confidence, leadership skills and interest in environmental issues.

Looking Ahead

Representatives from the All England Club and Emirates reflected on the programme’s progress during its first year and outlined plans for future development.

Discussions focused on expanding access to nature-based activities and ensuring opportunities remain available to communities across the UK.

The Emirates event also included a screening of the Championing Nature programme film and a behind-the-scenes tour of the Wimbledon grounds.

As the programme enters its second year, organisers aim to create additional opportunities for young people to engage in conservation projects, outdoor education and environmental leadership initiatives across the country.

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