• New report shows the dire state of nature and the need for accelerated action

• Government launches rapid review of the Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) to meet Environment Act targets to complete by the end of the year

• Working with civil society and business, Government will develop new, statutory plan to save nature, with delivery plans to meet each of our ambitious targets

The Government has yesterday (30 July) announced a rapid review of the Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) to be completed by the end of the year to deliver our legally binding targets to save nature.  

The Government will develop a new, statutory plan to protect and restore our natural environment with delivery plans to meet each of our ambitious Environment Act targets. This will focus on cleaning up our waterways, reducing waste across the economy, planting millions more trees, improving air quality and halting the decline in species by 2030. 

The review will engage with stakeholders across environment and nature, farming, resources, waste and water sectors, working hand in glove with businesses, local authorities and civil society across the country to develop new ambitious plans to save nature.  

Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed, said:  

  "Nature is dying.  

"Britain is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world. Our animal species face extinction. Our precious landscapes are in decline. Our rivers, lakes and seas are awash with sewage and pollution. Air pollution continues to plague our towns and cities 

"Nature underpins everything – the economy, food, health and society - but we stand at a moment in history when nature needs us to defend it.  

"That is why today we begin to chart a new course. Working with civil society, business and local government, we will develop an ambitious programme to turn the tide and save nature." 

The announcement comes as the government publishes the Environmental Improvement Plan Annual Progress Report. 
 

The Government is committed to protecting and restoring nature and delivering the Environment Act targets. This review is an important step in turning the page on nature recovery and will provide the foundations for delivering these targets. This includes the Government's manifesto promise to expand nature-rich habitats such as wetlands, peat bogs and forests so people can enjoy and wildlife can thrive, including on public land.