Healthy and functioning ecosystems are estimated to provide between 16-54 trillion dollars worth of value to the world economy every year.

Around two thirds of all household waste could be composted.

There are lots of ways you can help support wildlife and reduce your carbon by greening your garden. Below are some suggestions to help get you started:

Go PEAT Free!: UK peatlands are home to many unique species and yet are still endangered by the horticultural industry. In addition, peatlands store vast amounts of carbon and their protection and proper care can actually help to absorb more carbon from the air. You can green your garden by refusing to buy peat based composts. Instead, why not try peat free composts made in the Lake District? See the link for full details. Alternatively ask at your local garden centre for peat free alternatives.

Get Composting!: Get a compost bin in your garden and compost your kitchen and garden waste. This not only provides excellent compost you can re-use on your garden, it also reduces the amount of rubbish you send to landfill and provides a haven for a wide array of valuable species. You can buy a compost bin online or at most DIY stores and garden centres.

Get a Water Butt: Reduce the amount of water and energy you use by collecting rain water in a water butt. This represents an efficient way to water your garden. Water butts are lightweight and barrel sized and available at most garden centres and DIY stores.

Garden for Wildlife: Use your garden to create a space and haven for wildlife. Click on the link for great ideas or visit the garden wildlife homepage for advice tailored to your own patch, whether it's a balcony or a large garden.

Grow Your Own Veg: Why not turn your garden lawn into something useful like a vegetable patch? Gardening is an excellent way to get more wildlife into your garden, obtain your own fresh food, get yourself some valuable exercise and meet new people. Click on the link for an online guide to growing veg, or see the link here.

Get an Allotment: If you don't have a garden or are running out of space why not get an allotment? There is a waiting list for most allotments but the sooner you get yourself on the list the better. For more information ring South Lakeland District Council on 01539 733333, or your local town council.

Volunteer: Help protect our wildlife by volunteering with local conservation groups. Try the following for starters: Cumbria Wildlife Trust, BTCV and the RSPB.