Chris Packham: Leading Conservation Efforts While Making Sustainable Pet Food Choices

A Voice for Nature Returns to Screens

Chris Packham, alongside Michaela Strachan and Iolo Williams, has returned to front Winterwatch 2026, broadcasting live from the Mount Stewart estate on the shores of Strangford Lough. The popular BBC programme, which began on 20th January, offers viewers an intimate look at UK winter wildlife during the coldest months of the year. For nearly forty years, Chris Packham has been the voice of nature in the UK, using his platform to inspire millions to engage with the natural world.

Tackling the Environmental Impact of Pet Ownership

In a significant move this January, Chris Packham has said that his dogs are going plant-based for Veganuary, partnering with Omni, a vegan dog food brand, for the month. The naturalist appeared on Good Morning Britain with his two poodles, Sid and Nancy, to discuss this decision. Despite his own commitment to veganism since January 2019, his beloved poodles have remained on a meat-based diet, but acknowledging the heavy environmental toll of livestock farming, Packham has decided that this Veganuary is the time for a change.

Research by the University of Edinburgh found that dogs who eat premium, meat-rich diets can have a larger carbon footprint than their owners, and that dog food makes up one percent of all greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. Packham’s 90-day trial aims to demonstrate whether dogs can thrive on plant-based diets while significantly reducing the environmental cost of pet ownership.

Advocating for Hearing Dogs

Beyond his television work and environmental advocacy, Chris Packham has made an urgent appeal for dog lovers to consider becoming a volunteer puppy trainer for national charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. Chris, who has hearing loss himself, said he’s always had empathy for people whose hearing loss is more significant, highlighting the life-changing impact these specially trained dogs can have on deaf individuals.

Looking Ahead

Packham’s influence continues to grow with upcoming projects, including hosting a new five-episode series called Evolution, set to air on BBC Two and PBS later in 2026. His work demonstrates how public figures can leverage their platforms to drive meaningful conversations about conservation, animal welfare, and sustainable living. As climate concerns intensify, Packham’s willingness to address uncomfortable contradictions—such as the environmental impact of pet food—sets an important example for environmentally conscious pet owners seeking to reduce their ecological footprint.