My View: Rewilding Britain

I believe the climate and nature crises are the greatest long-term global challenge we face. Our environment shapes who we are as a nation, and underpins our economy, wellbeing and sense of place. When the environment thrives, so do we.

I believe that Britain is a land of remarkable beauty, and our countryside must be protected. One of my favourite things to do when I’m back home in Redcar is to walk along the sea front or across the moors (and swim in the sea!) just so I can admire the beauty our area has to offer. Wildlife and green spaces are incredibly precious, and I am absolutely committed to protecting them. I think it is clear Britain’s natural environment is struggling which is incredibly worrying. It is incredibly important that we take steps to protect the wonderful biodiversity of the land we call home, but also necessary to allow room for development of green industries to reduce any further large-scale harm to the environment. I believe we have a responsibility to protect the land for the future generations to come but do agree that local planning authorities should take into account the significance of our rich heritage.  

I recognise that the UK is one of the most nature-depleted nations worldwide. 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. The loss of biodiversity is troubling.

We must act to restore nature. That is why I welcome our Government’s revised Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP), which is 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. The Plan also sets out detailed actions, timeframes and responsibilities for our Government. 

I absolutely believe the EIP will help our 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’m looking forward to seeing 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 firmly behind the commitment to protect 30% of UK land and seas for nature by 2030. I welcome our 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 will continue to support our Government in its efforts to work with others to protect and restore it in the coming years, so thank you sincerely to everyone who got in touch with me to share their concerns too.