Despite all the crazy topsy turvy global circumstances one could list, I defy anyone who takes time to stop and spend time with spring flowers, snow drops, or a primrose, blackthorn and cherry blossoms, to not find solace in their common loveliness. As the greening begins, the elder first, complex nature stirs us all to find renewal and hope in the season’s adjustments despite depressing news.



The famous Spring poem by Emily Dickinsons underscores that sense of the wonder that science alone cannot capture.



A Light exists in Spring

Not present on the Year

At any other period --

When March is scarcely here



A Color stands abroad

On Solitary Fields

That Science cannot overtake

But Human Nature feels….



For me this extract reminds me of nature in the human, how we are not apart from nature, but part of it and how we feel nature. Though external forces exert pressures of separation, from beliefs to political systems, in the end we are as much part of the natural world as the primrose and the buttercup.



ELF’s work recognises this connectedness, as we work to bring nature into the human construct, “to welcome nature into the room” as Dr Neil Williams puts it. As always ELF’s work sits with the grassroots communities and there is always much to celebrate at the local level – the bubbling interest from nature guardians in using rights of nature and rivers to protect nature is arising from many quarters. Some will have been watching and be much encouraged by the momentous decision by Lewes District Council to “champion” and “support” the Ouse River Charter and ELF celebrates Love Our Ouse and others in their dedication to bringing this about.



ELF has also had some recent successes for our grassroots human and non-human communities, which is always pleasing – some decisions that were seriously injudicious to nature will be overturned. More on that later.



I have tried to be hopeful. It is sometimes hard in the face of humankind's seeming intent on the destruction of all that is wonderful, and that has evolved alongside our species, and more besides. But if at ELF we can help to prevent any further loss of the natural world, we will keep on.


Emma Montlake
ELF Co-Director

Historic decision sees River Ouse set to become first in England with legal rights

In an exciting and groundbreaking decision, Lewes District Council have agreed to recognise the Rights of the River Ouse, paving the way for the Ouse to become the first in England to have its legal rights recognised by a local authority.

“This is a historic moment for environmental protection in England,” said Emma Montlake, Co-Director of the Environmental Law Foundation (ELF). “By supporting the Rights of Rivers, Lewes District Council has set a precedent that could transform the way we safeguard our rivers. The River Ouse is an essential part of the region’s ecosystem and cultural heritage—this decision ensures a better future for the River’s health and protection.”

The Environmental Law Foundation, along with a great team at Hogan Lovells in support, is delighted to assist local community group Love Our Ouse (LOO) to advance the River Ouse Right’s Charter within the stipulated time frame, collaborating with stakeholders, LDC, Ouse & Adur Rivers Trust and Sussex Wildlife Trust.

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