Save Willy: why we need to protect earthworms

On this Global Recycling Day, we want to celebrate the planet's greatest recyclers: earthworms. Save Willy! A petition has been launched to protect earthworms, or simply to raise awareness of how important they are.

Nature's recyclers

Earthworms feed on dead organic matter: leaves, plant debris and plant remains. They turn it into nutrients that plants can use. Without them, dead leaves would pile up and the soil would become poorer.

Soil engineers

As they dig their burrows, earthworms aerate the soil and help water soak in. They mix the soil layers and leave behind casts, small heaps of highly fertile soil. A soil rich in worms is a living soil, where plants grow better.

To learn more, read our page on the ecological role of earthworms.

How can you help them?

• Avoid pesticides and chemical fertilisers in the garden.
• Cover the soil with mulch: dead leaves, dried grass clippings, shredded material.
• Limit deep digging, which destroys their burrows.
• Add compost or vermicompost: it's their favourite food.

Want to go further? The book Sauver le ver de terre tells the fascinating story of these little creatures and their role on our planet.

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