Broadcaster and environmentalist Chris Packham has taken on a new role as Chief Ecologist at Ecotalk, the pioneering mobile network that reinvests its profits into rewilding Britain.
As Ecotalk’s new ecological lead and public face, Chris will play a central role in restoring Britain’s natural landscapes. The company’s rewilding projects — already underway in West Sussex and Devon — aim to give land back to nature and bring back iconic species such as beavers, along with lesser-known but vital wildlife.
Founded by green energy entrepreneur Dale Vince OBE, Ecotalk is a SIM-only mobile provider with the UK’s best network coverage. Part of the Green Britain Group — which also includes Ecotricity, Ecojet, Skydiamond, and Forest Green Rovers — Ecotalk has, since 2016, been transforming everyday phone calls into meaningful environmental action.
Chris Packham said: “We are in a crisis — wildlife is disappearing before our eyes, measured, quantified, analysed… beyond question.
But it simply doesn’t have to be like this. We have the skills, technologies, and energies to restore, repair, and re-introduce nature into the UK. And it’s easy to think, ‘Well, maybe, but what can I do?’… The answer is simple: you can talk and text on your phone — you can turn chatter into actual conservation!
“I’m very excited to be joining Ecotalk to help drive these projects forward and make a difference for wildlife. And throughout, we will be communicating our successes and challenges, sharing with you the species that prosper, and offering ideas for you to try at home.
“Together, we can drive positive change for the wild things — the things we love most. C’mon, let’s Ecotalk a better future for nature!”
Ecotalk Founder Dale Vince OBE added: “Chris brings unrivalled passion and knowledge — he’s exactly who we need to lead this work. It’s a perfect match.
“Ecotalk is the UK’s most sustainable phone service. Every call you make helps rewild Britain — restoring landscapes and reintroducing species.
“Our partnership with Chris marks a powerful new chapter in Ecotalk’s mission to reverse biodiversity loss and give land back to nature.”
Rewilding in Action: Flagship Ecotalk Sites
🌳 Bowyers Wood – West Sussex (Nearly 300 Acres)
A diverse woodland of oak, beech, hazel, chestnut, and ash. Unmanaged for decades, the site is being revitalised through selective thinning, pond restoration, meadow creation — and plans for beaver reintroduction. Nest boxes and ecological monitoring begin this winter.
💧 Downicary – Devon
Formerly a grazed pasture, this area is being transformed into a wetland haven. New ponds, bogs, and scrapes support native flora and fauna. Wild beavers already inhabit a nearby stream, and otters are expected to be confirmed soon via camera trap surveys. Native hedgerows will also be planted this winter.
About Ecotalk
Launched in 2016, Ecotalk is the mobile network that restores nature. As a SIM-only provider, it offers the UK’s best coverage — and directs all profits toward rewilding projects across the country. A proud part of the Green Britain Group, Ecotalk’s mission is simple:
Use your phone. Restore the wild.
🔗 Find out more at: www.ecotalk.co.uk/restore-nature
