Churches across all denominations in England and Wales can now register to participate in Churches Count on Nature, an annual scheme where people visit churchyards and record the plant and animal species they encounter.

The biodiversity survey, supported by environmental charities A Rocha UK and Caring for God’s Acre, as well as The Church of England and The Church in Wales, will take place from 7-15 June 2025.

In the last four years, over 1625 counting events took place across churches in England and Wales, with over 30,000 people involved! More than 43,021 wildlife records were submitted to Caring for God’s Acre, and 3,021 species were recorded. The data will be used to determine where different species are located in the country. This can aid churches of all denominations in increasing biodiversity on their land for the enrichment of the environment and local communities.

Could you engage with the natural world and take part in this churchyard wildlife count this summer?

Churches Count on Nature is part of Love Your Burial Ground Week. Love your Burial Ground Week is a celebratory week which has been running for many years. Caring for God’s Acre has been encouraging all who help to look after churchyards, chapel yards and cemeteries to celebrate these fantastic places in the lovely month of June – in any way you choose. We’ve seen history talks, picnics, volunteering work parties and even abseiling teddy bears! 

Find out more about Churches count on Nature and Love Your Burial Ground Week here: https://www.caringforgodsacre.org.uk/love-your-burial-ground-week-national-cemeteries-week-and-churches-count-on-nature/

During Churches Count on Nature 2025, Caring for God’s Acre with the Church of England will be repeating the popular lunchtime webinar series on different aspects of land and nature, with all sessions starting at midday. Find out more about the webinars here: https://www.churchofengland.org/about/environment-and-climate-change/churches-count-nature-2025#na