A CONSERVATIONIST is being recognised on the global stage for his environmental education work.
Lyndon Howson, 28, who grew up in Grange-over-Sands, has been named a finalist in the EE 30 Under 30 programme, an international scheme run by the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) that celebrates young leaders making a difference in environmental education and community engagement.
The programme highlights 30 young leaders from around the world who are making a significant impact through environmental education and community action.
Mr Howson said: "Environmental education starts close to home.
"If people feel connected to nature where they live, they’re far more likely to want to protect it."
He credits his upbringing in Cumbria for sparking his early curiosity and passion for the natural world.
Mr Howson said: "Being surrounded by countryside and wildlife made me curious from a young age.
"Those early experiences really stayed with me and shaped the direction I wanted to take."
After studying zoology, Mr Howson built his career through a range of conservation and public engagement roles.
He is currently a wildlife and wellbeing officer at Chester Zoo, where he works to help people connect with nature through conservation projects and wellbeing programmes.
One of his standout achievements was leading a hedgehog conservation project at the University of Chester.
Under his leadership, the project grew from a small student initiative into a network of more than 170 volunteers.
The team focused on habitat creation, public outreach, and practical conservation actions to help protect one of the UK’s most threatened mammals.
In addition to his conservation work, Mr Howson has delivered free nature storytelling workshops for schools and community groups.
These sessions blend wildlife science and creative storytelling, encouraging young people to form a personal connection with the natural world.
Mr Howson said: "Facts and figures are important.
"But stories are often what help people remember why wildlife matters.
"If you can spark curiosity and emotional connection, that can lead to long-term change."
For Mr Howson, being recognised alongside other young leaders from around the world has reinforced the importance of local action.
Mr Howson said: "It’s encouraging to see work that starts in schools and communities being recognised internationally.
"It shows that small, local efforts can contribute to something much bigger."
NAAEE said finalists were selected for their capacity to inspire learning and engage communities in addressing environmental challenges.
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