Generation Green 2: A landmark success connecting thousands of young people with nature - National Parks England
_Tom+Marshall-9-NPE.jpg "A group of young children and a Park Ranger walk alongside bracken in the rain.")
A generation of young people has rediscovered the power of the outdoors thanks to the 12-month Generation Green 2 project.
The initiative has enabled 26,663 young people from some of the most socially disadvantaged areas to explore National Parks, National Landscapes, and Sites of Special Scientific Interest, often for the first time.
Funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), the landmark £4.5 million programme has transformed access to nature for thousands across England at a time when young people need it the most.
According to the newly released Generation Green 2 Celebration Report, the impact has been profound. Eight in ten participants said they would not have had the chance to experience the outdoors without the programme’s support. For over a third of participants, it marked their first-ever visit to the countryside.
Delivered by the Access Unlimited coalition, which includes YHA (England & Wales), The Outward Bound Trust, Field Studies Council, Girlguiding, Scouts, nine National Park Authorities and eight National Landscapes in England, the programme provided life-changing outdoor experiences - from day trips to residentials - designed to improve wellbeing, confidence, and environmental awareness.
“This isn’t just about fun and fresh air,” said James Blake, Chair of Access Unlimited and Chief Executive of YHA (England & Wales). “It’s about equity, opportunity, and giving every young person the chance to thrive in and care for the world around them. However, further funding is needed if we are to keep the momentum going.”
Posted On: 03/07/2025
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