The Doctors’ Association UK stood alongside organisations such as the National Trust, RSPB, and the Wildlife Trusts calling for political parties to Restore Nature Now.

The march presented an opportunity to meet people from all walks of life, with the shared goal to help nature so that nature can help us. 

The day concluded with speeches from prominent environment campaigners, including Steve Backshall, Chris Packham, Megan McCubbin, Feargal Sharkey and others. 

Dr Matthew Lee, DAUK’s sustainability lead, said “It was a fantastic day and really inspiring to know that so many people care about healing our natural world.

“The organisers did a fantastic job in ensuring it was a safe and inclusive event, and it was amazing to see people of all ages coming together for one goal.

“We hope the next government is ambitious in its goals and if not, I’m sure we’ll be back again in even greater numbers.”

DAUK campaigns on biodiversity loss because nature and healthy ecosystems are essential to human health.

Nature improves air quality, reduces peak temperatures in heatwaves, ensures food security, improves mental health and has countless other health benefits.

However nature in the UK has been decimated over recent decades, losing 97 per cent of wildflower meadows and having hundreds of species at risk of extinction, including hedgehogs and water voles.

While DAUK understands the reasons why some people may take non-violent direct action, as an organisation we only attend events that are in line with the law at the time.

Dr Lee said: “I’m sure there will be future environmental marches and we’d encourage our members to join us on these enjoyable family-friendly events to demand the government Restores Nature Now.”

Become a member of DAUK and support our work.

The Doctors’ Association UK (DAUK) is encouraging medical students to submit an essay with a maximum of 1000 words on the question: Why does biodiversity matter to healthcare and what should we do about it?”

The closing date for entries has been extended to 11.59pm on Monday 6 May.

The shortlisted finalists will be judged by Chris Packham, the broadcaster, environmental activist and animal welfare campaigner.

The first prize is £300, with two £100 prizes for the two runners-up, and the top three essays will also be considered for publication in the BMJ Leader blog.

Please ensure essays are in font size 12, are double spaced, are in Harvard or Vancouver style referencing with a maximum of five references.

The competition is free to enter and entrants must be a DAUK member. Membership is free for medical students.

Visit the membership section of the DAUK website for more details. 

Submit your essay by visiting  https://form.jotform.com/240785695420059