Seed, Volume 4

Seed is a biannual magazine, edited by Carole Bamford. At its heart is the belief that we need to live sustainably and consciously. It hopes to gently inspire readers to make small changes with their own choices so that together we can have a wider impact on the future of the planet.

In this issue:

Our fourth volume of Seed reflects on the positives to have emerged from this period of crisis: we consider the communities that have flourished, born out of a desire to tackle its challenges collectively.

In the UK, wild swimming groups sprung up around the country, with many braving icy temperatures to experience not only the health benefits and improved mental wellbeing but the bond that unites those willing to take the plunge. We interview Justin Byam Shaw, founder of London charity The Felix Project, to learn about how the pace and scale of its operation had to escalate to cope with the increased demand for its services; and how lives were touched by the volunteers who give up their time to prevent vulnerable communities going without food.

We also consider the communities that were torn apart. As the shutters came down, we learn how musicians were forced to regroup in different ways – to find new means of reaching their audience and fill the void left by the empty auditoriums.

Elsewhere, we respond to the growing interest in engaging with nature: we share how best to grow your own tomatoes or make seed bombs to sow a wildflower patch or meadow at home. We also consider the effects of the choices we make daily: how sustainable is our morning cup of coffee and how can we lower its environmental footprint.

We also shine a light on the world’s healthiest communities – those in so-called Blue Zones – and discover what lies behind their increased longevity and happier, healthier lifestyles. And celebrating the importance of being conscious of where our food comes from, we also share simple, seasonal recipes with a focus around reducing food waste.