There's literally a buzz in the air, following the creation and enhancement of wildflower areas to help support pollinating insects that are in decline.
The natural environment is essential to the work and services we provide for our customers. So, any opportunity to enhance the environment and increase biodiversity is very important to us.
We’ve changed how often we cut the grass at some of our operational sites, which will support biodiversity and protect valuable wildlife habitats that are under threat. Some have already shown promising signs of encouraging nature to thrive, with 62 species of plants recorded at one site alone.
We’ve also created new meadow areas at our head office and implemented changed how we cut the grass at and around our reservoirs, service reservoirs, water and wastewater treatment works.
There are a range of plants blooming across our sites - from beautiful wildflowers to orchids. A variety of bees and other invertebrates like butterflies and day-flying moths are regularly spotted, along with various reptiles like snakes and lizards.
Miranda Cooper, Conservation and Land Manager, said: "We're delighted with the progress of changes to how we manage grassland, and are looking for further opportunities to expand this across more of our sites.
"These small changes are helping to make a big difference by providing important sources of nectar and pollen for insects, which are vital for pollinating many of the crops we eat. It's fantastic that we can contribute towards ensuring connected landscapes for our wildlife and helping reverse declines in biodiversity.
"It's amazing what can be achieved just by simply reducing the amount of times the grass is cut. It not only helps to create a pleasant workplace for our people, but also creates an invaluable habitat for wildlife and builds stronger resilience to climate change."