North East Lincolnshire residents and visitors are being encouraged to come together this World Environment Day 2026 (Friday June 5) to celebrate and protect the area’s exceptional natural assets, from its stunning coastline and internationally important wetlands to vital habitats for migratory birds.
As a nationally significant environmental area, North East Lincolnshire is home to a range of protected sites, including nature reserves, saltmarshes and sand dunes that form part of complex coastal ecosystems. These landscapes not only support biodiversity but also play a critical role in flood defence, carbon storage and climate resilience.
One key local initiative is the DUNE project, made possible thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which aims to connect more people with a local natural heritage in a responsible way, increasing knowledge of our protected coastal sites and helping people to connect with these spaces in a responsible way. In doing so, the project helps to reduce disturbance to protected species and habitats on our coastline.
The region’s coastline also serves as an important stopover for migratory birds, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and contributing to the UK’s wider ecological network. These habitats are protected through careful management and partnership working between the local authority, conservation organisations and community groups.
North East Lincolnshire Council continues to play a leading role in environmental protection through initiatives such as improving recycling and waste services, supporting biodiversity projects, maintaining green spaces, and promoting sustainable travel. Local efforts also include tree planting schemes, coastal management programmes and public engagement campaigns aimed at reducing environmental impact.
Residents are encouraged to play their part this World Environment Day by taking simple but meaningful actions, from reducing waste and supporting local conservation activities, to enjoying and respecting the natural spaces on their doorstep.
Cleethorpes Coastal Ranger Josh Forrester, who organises regular nature walks to connect people with the extraordinary nature on their doorstep, said: “North East Lincolnshire is incredibly fortunate to have such a rich and diverse natural environment.
“World Environment Day is a chance for all of us to reflect on the role we can play in protecting it. Whether it’s supporting projects like DUNE, caring for our coastline, or making greener choices at home, every action counts.
“Together, we can ensure that North East Lincolnshire’s unique landscapes and wildlife continue to thrive for generations to come.”
For more information on the DUNE project, visit Cleethorpes DUNE project | NELC
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