When you hear the word ecology, what comes to mind? Maybe forests, rivers, or nature. But ecology is much more than that. It’s the relationship between living organisms and their environments.
For World Ecology Day, we spoke to one of our senior ecologists at Affinity Water. They explained what ecology means and why it matters to everyone.
What Is Ecology?
In simple terms, ecology is the study of natural connections. It looks at how living things – from tiny insects to large mammals – interact with each other and their surroundings.
Think of a woodland. Trees give shade and shelter. Birds build nests in the branches. Insects feed on the leaves. Fungi recycle nutrients in the soil. None of these living things could survive alone. They depend on each other in a giant web of life. That web is what ecologists study.
By understanding these links, ecologists can see what animals and plants need to thrive. For example, some butterflies only lay eggs on certain plants. If those plants vanish, so do the butterflies. Ecology helps us spot these risks and find ways to protect both wildlife and their homes.
Why does this relate to water?
Affinity Water is more than a company that supplies clean water. We also look after land – including wetlands, meadows, and woodlands. These places are full of life. That makes us responsible for protecting the species that live there.
But we don’t stop at protection. We also work to improve habitats and support nature across our region.
Here are some of the things we do:
- Create new habitats – planting trees, creating wetlands, and making space for wildlife.
- Improve existing ones – restoring rivers so fish can swim freely and thrive.
- Reconnect green corridors – linking up wild spaces so animals can reach prime habitats.
- Protect soil and water – healthy soil filters water and stores carbon. Clean water benefits both people and nature.
Why should you care?
You might be thinking, “That’s nice, but what does it have to do with me?” The truth is, nature looks after us every day.
Pollination – Bees, butterflies, and insects help grow much of our food. Without them, we’d struggle to eat.
Clean water – Wetlands and plants remove pollution, keeping water safe. Health and wellbeing – Spending time in green spaces lowers stress and boosts happiness.
Climate resilience – Rich ecosystems can bounce back from floods, heatwaves, and storms better than damaged ones. In short, a healthy environment means healthier people too.
What can you do to help?
You don’t need to be a scientist to help. Small changes can make a big difference:
- Plant flowers that feed bees and butterflies.
- Use water wisely – and keep chemicals out of drains.
- Visit and enjoy local green spaces. The more we value them, the safer they’ll be.
- Share what you learn about nature with friends and family.
Ecology reminds us that everything is connected. When we protect nature, we also protect ourselves. This World Ecology Day, let’s celebrate the connections around us – and do our part to keep them strong for the future.
Image credit: Louisa Veasey