Thank you for your recent campaign emails about Rewilding Britain and nature in England.
The climate and nature crises are the greatest long-term global challenge we face. Our environment shapes who we are as a nation, as well as underpinning our economy, wellbeing and sense of place.
Sadly, the UK is one of the most nature-depleted nations in the world. We have seen our countryside in decline and our waters polluted with sewage. I understand that since 1970 UK species have declined by about 19%, and nearly one in six species are now threatened with extinction. This loss of biodiversity is deeply troubling.
I agree we must act to restore nature, which is why I welcome the Government’s revised Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP); a roadmap for restoring England’s environment over the coming years.
The EIP sets out a wide range of goals and commitments covering nature restoration, clean air and water, chemicals and pesticide use, minimising waste and the sustainability of natural resources, and enhancing biosecurity. It also sets out detailed actions, timeframes and responsibilities for the Government.
I believe the EIP will help the Government protect and restore our iconic places and wildlife, boost biodiversity, create a circular economy, protect environmental security and improve people’s access to nature. I welcome the updated interim targets over the next five years on air quality, water, terrestrial and marine biodiversity and resource efficiency and waste reduction.
I also stand behind the commitment to protect 30% of UK land and seas for nature by 2030. I welcome the Government’s response to the Independent Water Commission, A New Vision for Water, published in January. It offers a radical transformation of the water industry regulatory framework in England. These once-in-a-generation reforms put consumers and the environment first while building a water system fit for the future.
We all need nature, and I would like to reassure my constituents that I will continue to support Ministers in its efforts to work with others to protect and restore it in the coming years.