Biodiversity and Ecosystems

Environmental Audit Committee Closed Inquiry
Opened: 13 Jul 2020 Closed: 26 Jan 2023 Parliament page
This inquiry examines how the UK can best protect and enhance biodiversity. We are: reviewing the UK Government’s performance on achieving international and domestic biodiversity targets in preparation for the fifteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) examining the state of … Read more
40 Recommendations
62 Conclusions
2 Reports
6 Oral sessions
7 Letters
6 Events
Activity timeline 23 events
24 Mar
2022
Correspondence
3 Mar
2022
Correspondence
1 Feb
2022
Report published
27 Jan
2022
Correspondence
30 Sep
2021
Report published
30 Sep
2021
Report published
7 Jul
2021
Correspondence
30 Jun
2021
Report published
17 Mar
2021
Correspondence
4 Mar
2021
Oral evidence
4 Mar
2021
Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · Virtual meeting
24 Feb
2021
Oral evidence
Oral evidence sessions 6 sessions
4 Mar 2021
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Kemi Badenoch · HM Treasury Steve Field · HM Treasury
24 Feb 2021
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Panel 1
Professor Sir Partha Dasgupta · HMT Economics of Biodiversity Review
13 Jan 2021
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Cheryl Case · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Richard Pullen · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Rt Hon Christopher Pincher MP · Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government Rt Hon George Eustice · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Simon Gallagher · Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government The Rt Hon. the Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
9 Dec 2020
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Panel 1; Panel 2; Panel 3
David Webster · Associated British Foods UK Grocery Martin Harper · Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) Mihai Coroi · Mott MacDonald Nathalie Seddon · University of Oxford Professor David Hill · Environment Bank Professor Sir Partha Dasgupta · HMT Economics of Biodiversity Review
12 Nov 2020
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Panel 1; Panel 2
Ben McCarthy · National Trust Caroline Knox · National Farmers' Union Environment Forum Craig Bennett · Wildlife Trusts Dr Ruth Little · University of Sheffield Julian Glover · London Evening Standard Kari Sprostranova · Balfour Beatty Mayor Philip Glanville · Local Government Association’s Environment, Economy, Housing and Transport Board Professor Kathy Willis · Natural Capital Committee
22 Oct 2020
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Panel 1; Panel 2
Andy Purvis · IPBES Anne Larigauderie · IPBES Braulio Ferreira de Souza Dias · UN Convention on Biological Diversity Doug Allan · Planet Earth and Blue Planet series Elisa Morgera · Strathclyde University Law School Kate Norgrove · WWF Tony Juniper · Natural England
Recommendations & Conclusions
102 results
1 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services’ call for transformative change provides a...
The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services’ call for transformative change provides a yardstick against which action to address biodiversity loss should be measured. The global response to biodiversity loss has so far been inadequate. Piecemeal conservation efforts, … Read more
Government Response
commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and contribute to the new framework of goals and targets which is being developed internationally, and we acknowledge there is more to … Read more
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2 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We recommend that the UK Government play a leadership role in addressing global biodiversity loss...
We recommend that the UK Government play a leadership role in addressing global biodiversity loss by demonstrating what ‘transformative action’ to address biodiversity loss in an advanced industrialised economy looks like. This should entail the production of credible plans, which … Read more
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3 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The UK has established a sophisticated public policy mechanism to tackle the effects of climate...
The UK has established a sophisticated public policy mechanism to tackle the effects of climate change by driving sustained long-term reductions in harmful emissions. This comprises legally binding interim and long-term targets authorised by Parliament, and an independent Climate Change … Read more
Government Response
We are committed to cross-departmental action on targets. During the target development process, we are engaging government departments on how their policies will play a part in achieving targets. The … Read more
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4 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
No such system yet exists to restore the UK’s greatly depleted natural environment.
No such system yet exists to restore the UK’s greatly depleted natural environment. It is thus unsurprising that the UK failed to achieve at least 14 of the Aichi Biodiversity Targets, and the Government is not on track to achieve … Read more
Government Response
The Government’s response to the EAC Inquiry on Invasive Species was published in May 2020. Our subsequent action includes initial work this year to scope and pilot the potential role … Read more
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5 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We welcome the Government’s announcement of a ‘State of Nature’ target on species abundance for...
We welcome the Government’s announcement of a ‘State of Nature’ target on species abundance for 2030. This goes some way in providing a legal mechanism to achieve nature goals, but for this to translate into urgent, transformative action, the target … Read more
Government Response
The Government recognises the importance of investing in green skills and job opportunities as part of a green recovery from coronavirus, and we know that having the right skills on … Read more
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6 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We recommend that the Government introduce, preferably via the Environment Bill currently before Parliament, a...
We recommend that the Government introduce, preferably via the Environment Bill currently before Parliament, a mechanism for statutory interim targets to ensure that its proposed species abundance target is met to halt the decline of nature by 2030. We further … Read more
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7 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We recommend that the Government introduce mechanisms to ensure that each Government department and non-departmental...
We recommend that the Government introduce mechanisms to ensure that each Government department and non-departmental public body is required, by their policies and actions, to contribute to reaching the targets set out above. The Office for Environmental Protection should be … Read more
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8 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Invasive species contribute significantly to the decline in biodiversity levels in Great Britain.
Invasive species contribute significantly to the decline in biodiversity levels in Great Britain. By its own admission, the Government has failed to prevent the arrival and continued spread of damaging invasive species. None of our predecessors’ recommendations on tackling invasive … Read more
Government Response
The 25 Year Environment Plan Outcome Indicator Framework presents an authoritative way to measure changes to our environment in England. It draws together a comprehensive suite of measures which collectively … Read more
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9 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Invasive species continue to cost the economy £1.8 billion per year.
Invasive species continue to cost the economy £1.8 billion per year. It is significantly cheaper to prevent invasive species from establishing, rather than tackling them once they are established.
Government Response
(9a) The UK is at the forefront of marine protection and, in England, 40% of our waters are protected in 178 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). We are now making sure … Read more
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10 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We strongly recommend that Ministers urgently review the recommendations of the Committee’s report on Invasive...
We strongly recommend that Ministers urgently review the recommendations of the Committee’s report on Invasive Species made in October 2019 and implement them without further delay. This includes increasing the proportion of biosecurity funding directed at countering invasive species to … Read more
Government Response
The Government recognises that healthy soil underpins a range of environmental, economic and societal benefits, including, food production, biodiversity, carbon storage and flood mitigation. Protecting and improving soil is essential … Read more
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11 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Public expenditure on measures to promote biodiversity has been cut in real terms over recent...
Public expenditure on measures to promote biodiversity has been cut in real terms over recent years. As a result, levels of monitoring have been scaled back, and the capacity for assessing the state of protected areas and vulnerable species nationally … Read more
Government Response
There are a number of bodies responsible for monitoring biodiversity, and this includes an extensive range of species surveillance schemes and Earth Observation services operated as partnership programmes by the … Read more
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12 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We recommend that Ministers make a material increase in levels of investment in training and...
We recommend that Ministers make a material increase in levels of investment in training and skills for chartered ecology and associated disciplines. This ought to form an element of the Government’s promised investment in Green Jobs.
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13 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The relationship between environmental monitoring and remedial action is far too weak.
The relationship between environmental monitoring and remedial action is far too weak. This must change. Data on biodiversity levels must inform decision-making in Government far more substantially than at present.
Government Response
See recommendation 11. Government spending plans have not been set beyond the end of 2021-22. Plans for the next business planning period will be agreed as part of this year’s Spending Review (SR21).
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14 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We recommend a formal mechanism be established to review and act on the information provided...
We recommend a formal mechanism be established to review and act on the information provided in the Environmental Accounts.
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15 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government’s new species abundance target for 2030 provides a potential mechanism for the measurement...
The Government’s new species abundance target for 2030 provides a potential mechanism for the measurement of progress on addressing biodiversity loss, and a driver for consequent actions. We recommend that once the target is established, regular, formal reviews of progress … Read more
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16 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The efficient management of data relevant to assessing levels of biodiversity is made difficult due...
The efficient management of data relevant to assessing levels of biodiversity is made difficult due to the sheer variety of data systems used to monitor UK biodiversity.
Government Response
Environment Bill once it comes into force and legally binding targets are established. In the interim, we will continue to monitor progress in achieving 25 Year Environment towards, which would … Read more
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17 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We recommend that the Government implement a preferred approach to data management and monitoring, to...
We recommend that the Government implement a preferred approach to data management and monitoring, to strengthen a consistent evidence base on the UK’s natural capital. The Government should also make greater use of earth observation data as a cost-effective means … Read more
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18 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
If Marine Protected Areas continue to be poorly managed and monitored, with little enforcement of...
If Marine Protected Areas continue to be poorly managed and monitored, with little enforcement of their protected status, there is a risk that the Government will have established a network of ‘paper parks’. According to monitoring data, the condition of … Read more
Government Response
We are clear that meeting the 30 by 30 target requires we extend our protected areas and ensure they are managed effectively to drive up their value for biodiversity. As … Read more
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19 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We reiterate the conclusions and recommendations of our predecessor Committee’s 2019 inquiry into Sustainable Seas.
We reiterate the conclusions and recommendations of our predecessor Committee’s 2019 inquiry into Sustainable Seas. (Paragraph 97) • Ministers must urgently set out a timetable to put management plans and monitoring in place for all MPAs. • Different categories of … Read more
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20 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Healthy soils are essential to biodiversity; and yet the data and indicators to measure soil...
Healthy soils are essential to biodiversity; and yet the data and indicators to measure soil health do not exist to the degree required to ensure effective monitoring. Without credible arrangements for monitoring and measuring soil health, the Biodiversity in the … Read more
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21 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We support the recommendations of the Natural Capital Committee that the development of soil indicators...
We support the recommendations of the Natural Capital Committee that the development of soil indicators should be fast-tracked; that a shadow target for soil health should be established urgently; and that a legally-binding target for soil health ought to be … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises the importance of healthy soils for the delivery of a wide range of ecosystem services, including food production, carbon storage, water regulation and supporting biodiversity. We are … Read more
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22 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
To deliver the Government’s environmental vision to improve the environment within a generation, arm’s length...
To deliver the Government’s environmental vision to improve the environment within a generation, arm’s length bodies and departments need to have the funding to do so. Budget cuts to biodiversity expenditure over the last decade have hindered this.
Government Response
Planning policy is devolved in the UK and the question and answer below relates to policies in England. (22a) Establishing a Nature Recovery Network (NRN)—an expanded and better connected network … Read more
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23 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We recommend that the Government urgently review the funding allocated to bodies with responsibility for...
We recommend that the Government urgently review the funding allocated to bodies with responsibility for monitoring, protecting and increasing levels of biodiversity in England, consistent with its goals for nature recovery under the 25 Year Environment Plan. In the next … Read more
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24 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
As the Public Accounts Committee has recently observed, there is no single point of responsibility...
As the Public Accounts Committee has recently observed, there is no single point of responsibility within government for monitoring overall expenditure on environmental goals, and the Government does not have a good understanding of the total costs required to deliver … Read more
Government Response
We have commissioned the Joint Nature Conservation Committee to develop a global environmental footprint indicator to help us understand the UK’s global footprint. This work is commissioned as part of … Read more
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25 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We support the recommendations of the Public Accounts Committee and the National Audit Office made...
We support the recommendations of the Public Accounts Committee and the National Audit Office made in their work on Achieving government’s long-term environmental goals. The Government must provide a comprehensive, consistent, and time-bound record of funding for the 25 Year … Read more
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26 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Between 2013–14 to 2019–20 Natural England’s baseline funding reduced by 49 per cent.
Between 2013–14 to 2019–20 Natural England’s baseline funding reduced by 49 per cent. The body considers that it can no longer deliver its statutory duties to a good standard as a direct consequence of these cuts. The cuts have fallen … Read more
Government Response
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) remains one of our most important economic indicators. GDP has tended to be closely correlated with employment, incomes and tax receipts making it useful for the … Read more
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27 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government increased Natural England’s baseline funding by £11.3 million in in 2020–21 and has...
The Government increased Natural England’s baseline funding by £11.3 million in in 2020–21 and has committed to increasing this by a further £75 million. Whilst 118 Biodiversity in the UK: bloom or bust? the funding increase is welcome, it does … Read more
Government Response
The UK is already demonstrating global leadership in driving forward natural capital approaches as a means to transition to a nature-positive economy and was pleased to use its recent role … Read more
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28 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
In the next multi-annual spending review, we recommend that Natural England receive a materially greater...
In the next multi-annual spending review, we recommend that Natural England receive a materially greater contribution in annual funding, in line with its 2020 Comprehensive Spending Review bid.
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29 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We welcome the funding announcements and increased public expenditure on international biodiversity, however international conservation...
We welcome the funding announcements and increased public expenditure on international biodiversity, however international conservation funding is still greatly outstripped by subsidies which cheapen the exploitation of the natural environment. The Government cannot spend more exploiting the natural environment than … Read more
Government Response
The Green Book already mandates the consideration of climate and environmental impacts in spending. Policies are developed and assessed against how well they deliver on the Government’s policy aims such … Read more
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30 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We recommend the Government commission a review of the operation of ‘perverse subsidies’ in the...
We recommend the Government commission a review of the operation of ‘perverse subsidies’ in the UK economy. This must entail the identification, assessment and tracking of public expenditure harmful to biodiversity, and the publication of data on the extent of … Read more
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31 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government is not on track to achieve its objective of improving the environment within...
The Government is not on track to achieve its objective of improving the environment within a generation, and its 25 Year Environment Plan does not provide sufficient direction to change this. Despite repeated calls in the last five years by … Read more
Government Response
(31a) The Department for Education (DfE) is exploring the option of introducing a new GCSE in Natural History after receiving a proposal from exam board OCR. Initial discussions with OCR … Read more
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32 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government must urgently establish a baseline for the Outcome Indicator Framework.
The Government must urgently establish a baseline for the Outcome Indicator Framework. Defra’s planned Natural Capital and Ecosystem Assessment pilot, and any subsequent baseline exercise, must focus on measuring a clear set of representative natural capital assets across England. The … Read more
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33 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
At present there is no strategy to tie the reporting framework for the 25 Year...
At present there is no strategy to tie the reporting framework for the 25 Year Environment Plan to the ten 25 Year Environment Plan goals. Nor does the plan explain how it will be delivered by local government and arm’s … Read more
Government Response
The Outcome Indicator Framework provides one method of reporting on the progress of the EIP. The Framework presents an authoritative way to measure changes to our environment. It draws together … Read more
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34 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
In all future progress reports on the 25 Year Environment Plan, information provided should relate...
In all future progress reports on the 25 Year Environment Plan, information provided should relate to the Plan’s ten goals. Priority actions must be assessed year on year, as must local delivery of the plan through arm’s length bodies. From … Read more
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35 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The 25 Year Environment Plan is not yet supported by clear, ambitious, quantified statutory targets...
The 25 Year Environment Plan is not yet supported by clear, ambitious, quantified statutory targets and milestones. The Environment Bill will provide a statutory underpinning for five of the goals in the Plan, but government has not set long-term objectives … Read more
Government Response
As a core part of our commitment to leave the environment in a better state than we found it, we have amended the Environment Bill to require a new, historic … Read more
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36 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government must address how it will set long-term objectives for all ten of the...
The Government must address how it will set long-term objectives for all ten of the Plan’s goals. As agreed to in 2018, the Government must publish how these goals and objectives relate to pre-existing national and international environmental targets. We … Read more
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37 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We welcome the Government’s pledge to protect 30 per cent of the UK’s land and...
We welcome the Government’s pledge to protect 30 per cent of the UK’s land and seas by 2030, but simply designating areas as protected is not enough. The UK’s protected areas are poorly managed. More focus must be given to … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises the importance of well-managed protected areas for nature recovery, and acknowledges that there is scope to improve the effectiveness of their management. We have committed to protecting … Read more
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38 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government should not count its wins early: protected areas should only be reckoned to...
The Government should not count its wins early: protected areas should only be reckoned to contribute to the 30 by 30 pledge if they are effectively managed and improved. We recommend the Treasury ensure that all bodies involved in the … Read more
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39 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government should provide a full response to the Glover Review before the 2021 summer...
The Government should provide a full response to the Glover Review before the 2021 summer recess.
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40 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We welcome the Government’s efforts to secure biodiversity gains in development: but the biodiversity net...
We welcome the Government’s efforts to secure biodiversity gains in development: but the biodiversity net gain policy, in its current form, does not go far enough in contributing to the transformative change necessary to address biodiversity loss in the UK. … Read more
Government Response
The Environment Bill will ensure that new developments enhance biodiversity and deliver measurable ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’ (BNG). This means developers will be required to ensure habitats for wildlife are left … Read more
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41 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government has failed to define what it means by net environmental gain as set...
The Government has failed to define what it means by net environmental gain as set out in the 25 Year Environment Plan, as its ambition for future development. The 120 Biodiversity in the UK: bloom or bust? failure to move … Read more
Government Response
The Environment Bill will ensure that new developments enhance biodiversity and deliver measurable ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’ (BNG). This means developers will be required to ensure habitats for wildlife are left … Read more
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42 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We welcome the extension of the biodiversity net gain policy to include Nationally Significant Infrastructure...
We welcome the extension of the biodiversity net gain policy to include Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects. We received overwhelming evidence in support of this and note the potential the policy now has to contribute to nature’s recovery. We will be … Read more
Government Response
The Environment Bill will ensure that new developments enhance biodiversity and deliver measurable ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’ (BNG). This means developers will be required to ensure habitats for wildlife are left … Read more
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43 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Nature recovery does not happen overnight and must be maintained and built upon for generations.
Nature recovery does not happen overnight and must be maintained and built upon for generations. The proposed 30 year minimum to maintain biodiversity net gains will achieve little in terms of delivering long-lasting nature recovery.
Government Response
The Environment Bill will ensure that new developments enhance biodiversity and deliver measurable ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’ (BNG). This means developers will be required to ensure habitats for wildlife are left … Read more
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44 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government’s Planning White Paper could have implications on the delivery of the biodiversity net...
The Government’s Planning White Paper could have implications on the delivery of the biodiversity net gain policy. We believe planning reforms should not weaken or undermine biodiversity protection.
Government Response
The Environment Bill will ensure that new developments enhance biodiversity and deliver measurable ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’ (BNG). This means developers will be required to ensure habitats for wildlife are left … Read more
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45 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
To allow the biodiversity net gain policy to fulfil its transformative potential within the UK’s...
To allow the biodiversity net gain policy to fulfil its transformative potential within the UK’s built environment we recommend that: • The Government should explain how and when it will move to embedding environmental net gain in the planning system, … Read more
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46 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Effective Environmental Land Management Schemes will only be possible if farmers and land managers are...
Effective Environmental Land Management Schemes will only be possible if farmers and land managers are brought into the process of policy design. This must include reaching out beyond the ‘usual suspects’ of big farming unions and environmental groups. Read more
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47 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
To include harder-to-reach farmers and land managers, rural broadband connectivity must be addressed as a...
To include harder-to-reach farmers and land managers, rural broadband connectivity must be addressed as a matter of urgency, as recommended by the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee in 2019. Defra should also make provision for tailored, farm-specific advice, farm … Read more
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48 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We welcome the Government’s ambition to create a national Nature Recovery Network but believe far...
We welcome the Government’s ambition to create a national Nature Recovery Network but believe far more detail is needed to translate this ambition into transformative action. The Nature Recovery Network (NRN) is contained in the 25 Year Environment Plan, but … Read more
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49 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
To address these concerns we recommend that: a) Defra updates its Nature Recovery Network Policy...
To address these concerns we recommend that: a) Defra updates its Nature Recovery Network Policy Paper by the end of the year, explaining how LNRS will be co-ordinated into a national Nature Recovery Network and how local authorities should link … Read more
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50 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We welcome the Government’s focus for COP26 on nature-based solutions (NbS) and the increased investment...
We welcome the Government’s focus for COP26 on nature-based solutions (NbS) and the increased investment provided by the Nature for Climate fund. Nature- based solutions could substantially contribute to meeting the UK’s net zero goals 122 Biodiversity in the UK: … Read more
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51 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Protecting existing ecosystems, be that ancient woodland, peatlands, or kelp forests provides the most cost-effective...
Protecting existing ecosystems, be that ancient woodland, peatlands, or kelp forests provides the most cost-effective and significant contribution to NbS in the UK. Given the majority of the UK’s ecosystems lie outside of protected areas, more needs to be done … Read more
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52 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Protection and restoration of peatlands have an important role to play in NbS.
Protection and restoration of peatlands have an important role to play in NbS. The Government’s announced ban on rotational burning of peat in protected areas is welcome, as part of the transformational change necessary to meet biodiversity and net zero … Read more
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53 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We welcome the Government’s Trees Action Plan, and the intention to focus on planting broadleaf...
We welcome the Government’s Trees Action Plan, and the intention to focus on planting broadleaf native species. The Government must not try to meet its tree planting target solely through commercial timber plantations using non- native species. A balance of … Read more
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54 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
To realise the benefits of nature-based solutions to climate change, we recommend that: a) The...
To realise the benefits of nature-based solutions to climate change, we recommend that: a) The UK adopt a clear definition of NbS and consider using the IUCN definition alongside the IUCN Global Standard for NbS. b) The Government prioritise protection … Read more
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55 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Tackling over-consumption of natural resources is essential to meet the Government’s net zero goals and...
Tackling over-consumption of natural resources is essential to meet the Government’s net zero goals and to reverse biodiversity loss. The first step in doing this is recognising the need to reduce the UK’s overall consumption. We welcome indications that Ministers … Read more
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56 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We recommend the Government start the process of setting an environmental footprint target by launching...
We recommend the Government start the process of setting an environmental footprint target by launching a consultation ahead of COP15 on how to model the overseas environmental impact of UK consumption. This could feed into Defra’s work on international indicators … Read more
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57 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Professor Dasgupta has emphasised that family planning and sexual and reproductive healthcare is a neglected...
Professor Dasgupta has emphasised that family planning and sexual and reproductive healthcare is a neglected feature of public policy. The unmet demand for family planning is huge and addressing human population numbers is also key to reducing our demands on … Read more
Government Response
Supporting people in their reproductive choices, including through the provision of voluntary family planning, may have a positive impact on the conservation of nature over the long term given the … Read more
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58 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
In response to this report, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office should set out the...
In response to this report, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office should set out the extent to which the announced cuts to the UK’s aid budget will affect overseas development assistance for family planning and reproductive healthcare. We recommend that … Read more
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59 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Economic models that do not value nature and ecosystems cannot address climate change and biodiversity...
Economic models that do not value nature and ecosystems cannot address climate change and biodiversity loss. GDP is a well-established measure of economic activity, but as Professor Dasgupta has highlighted, by itself it is not an adequate way to assesses … Read more
Government Response
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) remains one of our most important economic indicators. GDP has tended to be closely correlated with employment, incomes and tax receipts making it useful for the … Read more
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60 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government should detail how it intends to move beyond GDP as the primary measure...
The Government should detail how it intends to move beyond GDP as the primary measure of economic activity, towards a concept of inclusive wealth, which includes consideration of the UK’s produced, human, and natural capital.
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61 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Further work is needed on the natural capital accounting and assessment methodology, but this should...
Further work is needed on the natural capital accounting and assessment methodology, but this should not stop the Government and businesses using natural capital accounting now. Accounting for natural capital in some way, is better than ignoring it completely because … Read more
Government Response
The UK is already demonstrating global leadership in driving forward natural capital approaches as a means to transition to a nature-positive economy and was pleased to use its recent role … Read more
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62 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The UK should work with countries at COP15, COP26 and through the G7 to construct...
The UK should work with countries at COP15, COP26 and through the G7 to construct an internationally agreed way to integrate natural capital accounts into core national 124 Biodiversity in the UK: bloom or bust? accounts. This aligns with two … Read more
Government Response
The UK is already demonstrating global leadership in driving forward natural capital approaches as a means to transition to a nature-positive economy and was pleased to use its recent role … Read more
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63 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Committee acknowledges that currently natural capital approaches cannot capture intrinsic values of nature, but...
The Committee acknowledges that currently natural capital approaches cannot capture intrinsic values of nature, but they do serve as a first stepping-stone to valuing the natural environment in existing economic models.
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64 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
At present, the impact of Government policies and projects on nature is not adequately factored...
At present, the impact of Government policies and projects on nature is not adequately factored into spending decisions. As a result, the Government is not on track to meet its nature recovery goals. On aggregate, HM Treasury and other departments … Read more
Government Response
As set out in the government response to the PAC, at spending reviews, departments are required to assess the costs and benefits of their proposals—including climate and environmental impacts—following the … Read more
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65 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
We support the recommendation of the Public Accounts Committee that the Treasury’s next Comprehensive Spending...
We support the recommendation of the Public Accounts Committee that the Treasury’s next Comprehensive Spending Review should set out how the full value of environmental impacts has been taken into account, and the impact of spending decisions on meeting government’s … Read more
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66 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government has the opportunity to create a fiscal framework focused on delivering well-being, sustainability...
The Government has the opportunity to create a fiscal framework focused on delivering well-being, sustainability and economic stability. The current fiscal rules focus on managing the budget, public sector investment and debt. There is scope to extend this so balancing … Read more
Government Response
The Green Book already mandates the consideration of climate and environmental impacts in spending. Policies are developed and assessed against how well they deliver on the Government’s policy aims such … Read more
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67 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
The Government should include a Net Zero test of the 2021 Budget in its Net...
The Government should include a Net Zero test of the 2021 Budget in its Net Zero Review. Net Zero tests should be refined for future fiscal events to assess the climate impacts of taxation, spending and resource decisions. The Government … Read more
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68 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
Financial systems need to recognise the value of preserving biodiversity.
Financial systems need to recognise the value of preserving biodiversity. The transformation the financial system has undergone to integrate climate-related financial risks should be used as a roadmap to do the same for biodiversity. The interconnected, complex, and non-linear nature … Read more
Government Response
(30a) The Task Force on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TFND) framework is scheduled to be ready for launch and uptake by the end of 2023. The framework won’t just focus on … Read more
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69 Recommendation
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
To provide the signals needed for the financial system to manage biodiversity risks, we recommend...
To provide the signals needed for the financial system to manage biodiversity risks, we recommend that: a) The Government commit to legislate for mandatory disclosure of nature-related financial risks once the TNFD framework is ready. b) The Government explore how … Read more
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70 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
For biodiversity to be protected, it has to be appreciated and valued.
For biodiversity to be protected, it has to be appreciated and valued. But our increasing detachment from nature stops many of us knowing and directly experiencing it. This starts at a young age; children are spending less and less time … Read more
Government Response
(31a) The Department for Education (DfE) is exploring the option of introducing a new GCSE in Natural History after receiving a proposal from exam board OCR. Initial discussions with OCR … Read more
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71 Conclusion
First Report - Biodiversity in the…
To increase education on biodiversity we: a) Support the establishment of a Natural History GCSE;...
To increase education on biodiversity we: a) Support the establishment of a Natural History GCSE; b) Recommend the Department for Education re-evaluate the opportunities for nature visits and teaching outside, as part of its support to schools recovering from the … Read more
Government Response
(31a) The Department for Education (DfE) is exploring the option of introducing a new GCSE in Natural History after receiving a proposal from exam board OCR. Initial discussions with OCR … Read more
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1 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
Consumption patterns in the UK are unsustainable.
Consumption patterns in the UK are unsustainable. Addressing these patterns is key to the UK’s contribution to the alleviation of global biodiversity loss. The first step is to recognise the need to reduce the UK’s overall consumption. We welcome that … Read more
Government Response
When first published in 2019, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) Outcome Indicator Framework included a commitment to develop an indicator describing overseas environmental impacts of UK … Read more
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2 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
In 2018 the Government announced it would devise an indicator on the overseas environmental impacts...
In 2018 the Government announced it would devise an indicator on the overseas environmental impacts of UK consumption of key commodities. It appears that little to no progress has been made in developing this indicator. This is disappointing and shows … Read more
Government Response
changes. As set out previously in our response4 to the Public Accounts Committee’s recommendation on this matter, the government already carefully considers the environmental implications of relevant measures. 2 https://hub.jncc.gov.uk/assets/709e0304–0460–4f83–9dcd-3fb490f5e676 … Read more
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3 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
We recommend that the Government urgently prioritise the development of the indicator on overseas environmental...
We recommend that the Government urgently prioritise the development of the indicator on overseas environmental impacts of UK consumption of key commodities, since a better understanding of the environmental impacts of imported products is crucial to meeting the Government’s objectives … Read more
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4 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
Ministers should consider how best to encourage behavioural change towards more sustainable and ethical patterns...
Ministers should consider how best to encourage behavioural change towards more sustainable and ethical patterns of consumption. Subsidies, environmental tax measures and tax reliefs are some of the financial and fiscal tools available to government. The Public Accounts Committee has … Read more
Government Response
to the free trade agreements which we are pursuing with various partners. Scoping and impact assessments for new Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) post-Brexit include both quantitative and qualitative assessments of … Read more
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5 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
The Committee looks forward to seeing an ambitious approach from Government to embedding Net Zero...
The Committee looks forward to seeing an ambitious approach from Government to embedding Net Zero in all policy decisions in its forthcoming Net Zero Strategy.
Government Response
The Greening Government Commitments require compliance with Government Buying Standards. This means they apply to 20 core Ministerial and non-Ministerial departments, their executive agencies and executive non-departmental public bodies (but … Read more
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6 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
In the Net Zero Strategy, the Government should commit to evaluating all taxation changes against...
In the Net Zero Strategy, the Government should commit to evaluating all taxation changes against how well they deliver on the Government’s environmental objectives. 48 The UK’s footprint on global biodiversity The Government’s approach to how taxation changes will be … Read more
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7 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
The Net Zero Strategy should include an explicit commitment to Net Zero stress test all...
The Net Zero Strategy should include an explicit commitment to Net Zero stress test all future fiscal events and a commitment to develop a nature stress test to be used for fiscal events. The Net Zero Strategy must be published … Read more
Government Response
We are committed to making the UK the best place in the world for green and sustainable investment and were the first country in the world to commit to fully … Read more
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8 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
For the Government to make good on its support for environmental sustainability to be at...
For the Government to make good on its support for environmental sustainability to be at the heart of global production and trade, it needs to mainstream biodiversity considerations more consistently into its trade agreements and operations. Leaving the European Union … Read more
Government Response
To ensure that the post-2020 global biodiversity framework drives global action, it is essential that it is supported by an uplift in financing for nature. Mobilising resources from all sources … Read more
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9 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
We recommend that sustainability impact assessments be conducted for all future trade agreements and that...
We recommend that sustainability impact assessments be conducted for all future trade agreements and that as part of the Government’s Nature Strategy the Government consider how to monitor and deliver environmental net gain in trade deals. In response to this … Read more
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10 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
We welcome and agree with the Secretary of State’s analysis that addressing the sustainability of...
We welcome and agree with the Secretary of State’s analysis that addressing the sustainability of the UK’s global supply chains will be one of the most powerful ways in which the UK can reduce its adverse impact on levels of … Read more
Government Response
We welcome and agree with the Secretary of State’s analysis that addressing the sustainability of the UK’s global supply chains will be one of the most powerful ways in which … Read more
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11 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
Sustainable government procurement presents a pathway to increasing the sustainability of supply chains.
Sustainable government procurement presents a pathway to increasing the sustainability of supply chains. Yet Government performance against existing sustainable procurement policies has been unimpressive. The removal of the mandatory reporting obligation by Government departments against the Greening Government Commitments has … Read more
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12 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
We welcome the news that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is considering...
We welcome the news that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is considering restarting the routine reporting of levels of compliance with Government buying standards. We also note with approval the effect that Government commitments on the importation … Read more
Government Response
We welcome the news that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is considering restarting the routine reporting of levels of compliance with Government buying standards. We also note … Read more
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13 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
To increase sustainability within UK global supply chains, we recommend that: a) in its response...
To increase sustainability within UK global supply chains, we recommend that: a) in its response to this report, the Government should set out a clear and accessible definition of sustainability within the context of the Government Buying Standards; b) the … Read more
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14 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
A natural capital approach to valuing agricultural products provides another way to increase the sustainability...
A natural capital approach to valuing agricultural products provides another way to increase the sustainability of supply chains.
Government Response
A natural capital approach helps decision-makers understand the economic value of the benefits we receive from the natural world, so that its value is properly accounted for alongside other considerations. … Read more
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15 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
Within the National Food Strategy the Government should consider how a natural capital approach could...
Within the National Food Strategy the Government should consider how a natural capital approach could be adopted without placing a disproportionate financial burden on farmers or consumers.
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16 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
90% of respondents to the Government’s consultation on new laws for forest-risk commodities believed proposals...
90% of respondents to the Government’s consultation on new laws for forest-risk commodities believed proposals should be extended so that it is illegal for UK businesses to use any key commodities related to deforestation in their supply chains. We agree … Read more
Government Response
90% of respondents to the Government’s consultation on new laws for forest-risk commodities believed proposals should be extended so that it is illegal for UK businesses to use any key … Read more
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17 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
To increase the sustainable use of forest-risk commodities we recommend that the Government make it...
To increase the sustainable use of forest-risk commodities we recommend that the Government make it illegal for UK businesses and the finance sector to use commodities linked to deforestation and, at the very least, include the finance sector within the … Read more
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18 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
The UK Overseas Territories are home to 94 per cent of British endemic species and...
The UK Overseas Territories are home to 94 per cent of British endemic species and 90 per cent of the biodiversity for which the UK Government has responsibility. The territories are also of global importance given the large proportion of … Read more
Government Response
The UK Overseas Territories are home to 94 per cent of British endemic species and 90 per cent of the biodiversity for which the UK Government has responsibility. The territories … Read more
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19 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
To further improve the state of biodiversity in the Overseas Territories, we recommend that gaps...
To further improve the state of biodiversity in the Overseas Territories, we recommend that gaps in their protection be rectified. Namely, we recommend that: a) Ministers assure and set out the long-term funding plan for the Blue Belt Programme. In … Read more
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20 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
Consideration of natural capital must be a priority in the assessment of overseas development assistance...
Consideration of natural capital must be a priority in the assessment of overseas development assistance projects. Nature sustains all of us and becomes even more critical in a developing country context. We welcome the Government’s announcement of a new International … Read more
Government Response
Consideration of natural capital must be a priority in the assessment of overseas development assistance projects. Nature sustains all of us and becomes even more critical in a developing country … Read more
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21 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
We recommend that in response to this report the Government detail how it intends to...
We recommend that in response to this report the Government detail how it intends to nature-proof overseas development assistance, and how compliance with this commitment will be monitored. (Paragraph 89) The UNCBD COP15
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22 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
The UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) COP15 summit presents an opportunity to create a...
The UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) COP15 summit presents an opportunity to create a transformative Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework that will ‘bend the curve’ of biodiversity loss. The UK has a crucial role to play in promoting a transformative, … Read more
Government Response
The UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) COP15 summit presents an opportunity to create a transformative Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework that will ‘bend the curve’ of biodiversity loss. The UK … Read more
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23 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
We reiterate our welcome for the UK Government’s leadership in establishing the Global Ocean Alliance...
We reiterate our welcome for the UK Government’s leadership in establishing the Global Ocean Alliance and signing the Leaders’ Pledge for Nature. We also welcome the establishment of nature as a key theme for COP26.
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24 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
The publication of the first draft of the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework provides a promising...
The publication of the first draft of the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework provides a promising starting point, but elements of the draft lack ambition. • The 2030 mission should be clearer and stronger, and should align with the Leaders’ Pledge … Read more
Government Response
We are seeking a commitment to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 in the post-2020 global biodiversity framework at CBD COP15. Such a commitment is highly ambitious and will … Read more
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25 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
The Post-2020 Framework’s goals and targets will be meaningless if not properly implemented.
The Post-2020 Framework’s goals and targets will be meaningless if not properly implemented. The CBD ought to adopt a regular review mechanism, such as that adopted under the Paris Agreement of the UNFCCC, which encourages Parties to ‘ratchet’ the level … Read more
Government Response
We know that addressing climate change is not possible without also addressing biodiversity loss, and vice versa. The UK is addressing these dual threats together and placed nature at the … Read more
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26 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
Mainstreaming biodiversity considerations across government departments will be crucial to meeting the Post-2020 Biodiversity Targets.
Mainstreaming biodiversity considerations across government departments will be crucial to meeting the Post-2020 Biodiversity Targets. The UK’s past performance on cross-departmental co-ordination on nature has been disappointing. We have nevertheless been encouraged to observe the willingness of Ministers to work … Read more
Government Response
The UK is committed to continuing to show international leadership on biodiversity, the environment and climate change. We have showcased this most recently as part of our G7 and COP26 … Read more
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27 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
The policy statement on environmental principles, to be prepared under the Environment Bill, ought to...
The policy statement on environmental principles, to be prepared under the Environment Bill, ought to be a powerful tool for mainstreaming environmental concerns, including biodiversity, across Government. So the Government’s response to the recommendation of our previous report—arguing that general … Read more
Government Response
We disagree with the Committee’s characterisation of our approach to the Environmental Principles Policy Statement. The policy statement will be a powerful tool for mainstreaming environmental concerns, including biodiversity, across … Read more
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28 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
The global biodiversity funding gap is huge.
The global biodiversity funding gap is huge. It cannot be tackled with contributions from the Global Environment Facility alone. A dedicated financial mechanism for biodiversity action, as has already been set out and agreed by Parties under the CBD, is … Read more
Government Response
In recognition of this, in 2021 the Prime Minister committed to spending at least £3 billion of the UK’s International Climate Finance (ICF) over the following five years on climate … Read more
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29 Conclusion
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
As host of COP26, the UK has an instrumental role to play in pairing the...
As host of COP26, the UK has an instrumental role to play in pairing the UNCBD COP16 and UNFCCC COP26. We are encouraged by Ministers’ assurances that there is a close working relationship with their Chinese counterparts regarding efforts to … Read more
Government Response
We know that addressing climate change is not possible without also addressing biodiversity loss, and vice versa. The UK is addressing these dual threats together and placed nature at the … Read more
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30 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
In promoting a transformative Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework, we recommend that the UK Government advocate: •...
In promoting a transformative Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework, we recommend that the UK Government advocate: • A strengthening of the Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework’s 2030 mission to align with the Leaders’ Pledge for Nature and G7 2030 Nature Compact to halt and … Read more
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31 Recommendation
Second Report - The UK's footprint…
To help pair the UNCBD and UNFCCC COPs, we recommend the UK explore opportunities to...
To help pair the UNCBD and UNFCCC COPs, we recommend the UK explore opportunities to support China on leading international environmental negotiations. We also recommend that China and the UK collaborate on how to integrate nature- based solutions across both … Read more
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Correspondence 7 letters
24 Mar 2022 To committee Letter from the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, relating to the Biodiversity and Ecosystems inquiry, dated 18 March 2022
Parliament page
3 Mar 2022 To committee Letter from the Chair to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, relating to the Biodiversity and Ecosystems inquiry, dated 2 March 2022
Parliament page
27 Jan 2022 Correspondence with the Minister of State (Minister for School Standards), Department for Education, relating to recommendations made in the EAC's Biodiversity in the UK: Bloom or Bust? and Green Jobs reports, dated 27 January 2022
Parliament page
7 Jul 2021 To committee Letter from the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, regarding the publication of the EAC Biodiversity and Ecosystems report, dated 2 July 2021
Parliament page
17 Mar 2021 To committee Letter from the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury to the Chair on water quality, dated 12 March 2021
Parliament page
13 Nov 2020 To committee Letter from Natural England re: funding and biodiversity
Parliament page
15 Oct 2020 To committee Letter from EasyJet CEO to Chairman on additional points raised at meeting
Parliament page