Give a Gift of Conservation

14 November, 2024

Article by:
Linda Mellor , Writer. Editor. Photographer. and Author., British Deer Society

Give a Gift of Conservation: Protecting the UK’s Wild Deer This Christmas

As the season of goodwill approaches, many of us begin the search for meaningful gifts. In a world overwhelmed by consumerism, it’s easy to fall into the habit of buying well-intended presents that often go unused, destined to be forgotten forever by Boxing Day.

The pressure to meet long-standing present buying obligations for family and friends or to resort to last-minute panic buying, can make seasonal gifting feel more stressful than joyful. But it doesn’t have to be this way. This year, you could choose a gift that carries genuine significance and supports the conservation of one of the UK’s most admired species: the deer.

The Value of Authentic Giving

With an abundance of material goods available 24/7 we are only ever a few clicks away from a next-day doorstep delivery. During the festive season, we generate an incredible *30% more waste, with millions of pounds worth of unwanted gifts ending up in landfill. However, there is an opportunity to make our gifts count for something more meaningful. By supporting the British Deer Society (BDS) through donations, memberships, or purchases, you can give a gift that creates a lasting positive impact.

A Deeper Connection through Giving

A gift that supports wildlife, such as a BDS membership, offers deeper emotional significance and a sense of fulfilment. Gifting in this way is a gesture of commitment to the wellbeing of our wild deer and the environment.

Inspiring the Next Generation

For children, a BDS membership can spark a lifelong interest in wildlife and nurture a sense of responsibility for conservation. It’s an opportunity to teach young people the importance of protecting nature, fostering a deeper connection with the world around them. Unlike toys that are quickly outgrown, this gift grows with them, shaping their understanding of ecology and stewardship.

How Your Gift Helps Deer

As the festive season of goodwill approaches, there’s a unique opportunity to select gifts that create a wider impact. By supporting the British Deer Society, your gift helps to:

Raise awareness of deer and their role in UK ecosystems.
Fund essential research and conservation projects.
Promote responsible wildlife interaction and photography.
Foster a deeper connection between people and nature.

Combating Misinformation

With more people engaged in deer conservation, we can help combat the inaccuracies often found in sensationalist media coverage. The press can sometimes dramatise wildlife issues, leading to misunderstandings about deer and their role in the environment. By supporting BDS, you contribute to educating the public with accurate, science-based information about deer management, helping to counteract myths and improve public understanding.

The Society’s work in advocacy, education, and responsible deer management is made possible through the generosity of its supporters. Your donation plays a vital role in ensuring the UK’s wild deer are respected, sustainably and humanely managed.

A Gift that Lasts Beyond the Season

This festive season, consider giving thoughtful, meaningful gifts that have a broader impact. Let’s choose to give in a way that reflects our values, creates lasting positive change, and supports the natural world, and ensures that future generations can experience the beauty of wild deer in the UK.

Reference:

*Friends of the Earth https://friendsoftheearth.uk/sustainable-living/should-we-regift-unwanted-christmas-presents

CHRISTRMAS SHOP

Why not explore our selection below of Christmas products that support deer? From exclusive BDS merchandise to beautiful Christmas cards, each purchase helps fund the work of the BDS.