UK Government Environment Bill

In October 2019, the UK Government introduced a landmark Environment Bill, which will come into action when the country leaves the European Union. It includes measures to improve air and water quality, reduce plastic pollution, and restore natural habitats. A new Office for Environmental Protection will be established, which will ensure that environmental standards are upheld and that the government reaches its net-zero emissions target by 2050. Strikingly, the Bill mandates that there must be a net increase in biodiversity in the UK. This will require the creation of Local Nature Recovery Strategies to prioritise protection and investment in nature within local areas, such as through incorporation of thriving natural spaces into residential areas. Nature-based solutions are highlighted as a key method to help the UK safeguard biodiversity and  adapt to climate change. Read the bill and commentary.