About the importance of safeguarding Lidingös nature – for runners, species and our future.

For many runners, running isn’t solely about exercising, it’s about experiencing nature. The soft paths, the sun glistening through the trees, birds chirping and the feeling of being part of something bigger. But how often do we reflect on what nature gives us – and what we can give back?

Helena Klangemo and Isak Isaksson from the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation on Lidingö, deem that we’re at a crossroads. Lidingös nature houses an abundance of life, but is also under threat.

·Lidingö is unique with its many natural reserves and green environments, says Helena, president of the local circuit. For us, it’s a given to protect these territories which each year provide amazing experiences for thousands of runners.

The largest natural reserve, Långängen-Elfviks naturreservat, houses both rare plants as well as animals worthy of protection. For example, there are bats who are sensitive to light pollution, amphibians who risk their life every time they cross a road during mating season and unfortunately, the red listed hedgehog only exists in the few.

·If their habitats disappear, so does the species, says Isak. When we erect buildings, illuminate gardens, remove heaps of compost or use pesticides, we influence more than we might realize, says Isak Isaksson, species expert at the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation.

Lidingöloppet initiated a three-year collaboration with the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation to minimize the impact on climate and nature from the race. The collaboration aims to create an event where nature is more than just the scenery – it’s a partner worth protecting.

·Runners are often also nature lovers. We hope that more people realize the importance of supporting the work to protect the species which otherwise are at risk of disappearing forever. Swift is a highly threatened species which nests beneath the ceilings on tall buildings, where builders, condominium associations and house owners who reroof can contribute, Helena Klangemo adds.

So, the next time you run through the forests of Lidingö – think about that your love for running also can become a force to preserve that which makes it possible.

Learn more about the work of the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation