Saving Our Wild Isles is a Silverback Films documentary for WWF, the RSPB and the National Trust, landing exclusively on BBC iPlayer on Sunday 9th April (2023) at 8pm.
The documentary highlights the people working hard to halt the alarming decline in nature as well as focusing on the wildlife and habitats at risk in the UK – one of the most nature depleted counties in the world. The film is complementary to the BBC commissioned TV series 'Wild Isles’, also produced by Silverback Films, which brings to life the scale and pace of change urgently needed to save nature in the UK. It shows not only what is possible and already happening but is clear that in order to save our nature, its recovery needs to become mainstream across our society.
Sir David Attenborough said: “Whilst it’s tempting to think of those on the frontline as the only ones who can make a difference. The truth is, every one of us, no matter where we live, can and must play a part in restoring nature to our isles. Never has it been more important to do this for ourselves and for our wildlife.”
Alastair Fothergill, Silverback Films said: “We at Silverback Films were delighted to have been commissioned by the WWF, the RSPB and the National Trust to produce this uplifting film that celebrates the extraordinary work being done by people working hard to restore nature to our Wild Isles.”
Beccy Speight, RSPB Chief Executive, Tanya Steele, WWF Chief Executive and Hilary McGrady, National Trust Director General, said: "The scale of the crisis facing UK nature demands that all of us, from all parts of society, take action. From individuals, businesses, governments, we need to work with nature, not against it.
“Incredible work is happening in every corner of the UK, but to turn the nature crisis around requires all of us to play our part. Inspired by the landmark Wild Isles series, we came together to bring to life and celebrate these stories in an effort to inspire more people, businesses and leaders to pick up the baton.
“We are delighted to have worked with world-leading filmmakers Silverback, with Sir David whose powerful narration brings these stories to life, and with the BBC who acquired the documentary for iPlayer to bring it into millions of homes across the country.
"BBC’s Wild Isles has shown us the scale of the crisis facing nature. It is enormous and we urgently need more people acting for nature. We have the solutions but it will take each and every one of us to turn the tide and leave our lands and seas in a better state for future generations.”
Saving Our Wild Isles
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS ALASTAIR FOTHERGILL, COLIN BUTFIELD
COMMISSIONED FOR THE RSPB AND WWF-UK BY ALEX TRY, EMMA COLLACOTT, JACK LUNDIE, JODIE PALMER
Produced & Directed by Laura Howard
Assistant Producer Claire Sharrock
Researcher Harry Yates
Production Managers Rebecca Coombs, Tash Dummelow
Production Co-ordinator Sophie Lavender
Principle Photography Ben Cherry
Film Editor Steve Phillips