The lesson I learned at my local dump? There are beautiful times up ahead

What was once a toxic wasteland now explodes with flora and fauna. A walk there always gives me renewed faith in imagination, determination and humanity, says Emma Beddington

Johnson urged to extend public’s right to roam over English countryside

Letter signed by 100 people including Stephen Fry and Ali Smith points out freedom to roam only extends to 8% of country

Climate ‘apocalypse’ fears stopping people having children – study

Survey of 600 people finds some parents regret having offspring for same reason

Country diary: slow growth on the edge of oblivion

Buxton, Derbyshire: Yews have steel-like strength and the ability to grow in unlikely places – even out of pure rock

The Guardian view on restoring lost rights of way: in search of beauty

Editorial: The huge response to a campaign to put forgotten public footpaths back on the map shows how much we value access to the natural environment

Country diary: boulderers make the most of the rocky terrain

Llanberis, Gwynedd: They felt at the initial holds, arms taking their weight, toes stabbing at edges and pockets that might afford some lift

Country diary: into the woods and out of the ordinary

Coed y Cwm, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion: The deep leaf litter beneath my feet soaks up other sounds, creating an acoustic like that of a softly furnished library

The Guardian view on the pleasures of autumn

Editorial: It will be a difficult winter, but the natural world brings small, precious consolations

From little acorns: into the woods in search of Britain’s ancient oak trees

Seeking out the guardians of Britain’s ancient forests is a magical experience. Here’s where to find them, starting in Wiltshire

Autumn colour brings joy to UK’s growing band of ‘leaf peepers’

Increasing numbers of people are discovering the pleasures of the turning of the seasons