The red squirrel, which is at risk of extinction in England and Wales within 25 years, may have developed an immunity to a squirrel-pox virus. The disease, which is spread by its American cousin the grey squirrel, was thought to be threatening red squirrel populations across the country. But an analysis of more than 500 red squirrel corpses by the Zoological Society of London found eight had been exposed to the virus but died from other causes.

The Friends of East Wickham Open Space group has organised a daffodil planting event on Sunday, November 9 at Highbanks Close, off Upper Wickham Lane, Welling, opposite Plumstead Cemetery. Species of daffodil have been selected and people are asked not to bring any of their own. If they want to donate bulbs or make sure there will be enough to plant, they should call the group. People should meet at 10am and bring gardening gloves, wear suitable clothing and footwear and, if possible, bring their own hand digger. Call Mark Taylor at Bexley Council on 020 8294 6558.

Find out what and what not to eat when it comes to fungi by joining Lesnes Abbey Conservation Volunteers for a foraging expedition through the Abbey Woods on Sunday, November 9. To take part turn up at the information centre by the abbey ruins, off Abbey Road, Abbey Wood, at 10am or for more details call Ann Pearce on 020 8310 3033.

London’s local authorities have pledged to cut CO2 emissions by 10 per cent as part the London Narrative, a scheme aiming to improve the lives of Londoners. Local partners across the capital will work together to make improvements to health, crime, child poverty and the environment, including cutting CO2 emissions, increasing recycling and reducing waste. It is hoped nearly 2.5 million tonnes of CO2 will be saved over the next three years.

Species and wildlife continue to shrink in size and disappear while around 50 countries suffer from a shortage of water. This is according to the latest edition of conservation organisation WWF’s Living Planet report. The study, produced with the Zoological Society of London and the Global Footprint Network, shows the average UK resident’s impact on the planet is more than three-and-a-half times that of the average African.

The Government has announced an initiative designed to speed up low-emission technology on Britain’s roads. Around £20m is available to provide electric and low-carbon vans to public sector organisations including Royal Mail, the Met Police and the Environment Agency.