BRITAIN IS 'ONE OF THE MOST NATURE-DEPLETED PLACES IN THE WORLD'

Curlew - in decline across much of Britain

WHAT CAN BE DONE TO REVITALISE WILDLIFE IN THE UK?

HOW can we halt wildlife degradation and enrich biodiversity in the UK?

Later in the year  this will be the  subject of a London  symposium to be  led by DEFRA executive Mark Stevenson.

Says the brochure: "Biodiversity is key to the survival of life on Earth. 

"It underpins the functioning of all ecosystems essential for human well-being, delivering a cultural, social and economic service that enriches our lives. 

"Yet, despite its fundamental importance, biodiversity continues to be lost with its deprivation compromising ecological sustainability.

"Published in 2016, the National Biodiversity Network’s  State of  Nature report, suggests that the UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world ranking 189th out of 218 countries.

"Additionally, out of the 8,000 species assessed in the report, 15per cent are recorded to be either extinct or threatened with extinction from Great Britain.

"Research by DEFRA  indicates only 38.5 per cent of Sites of Special Scientific Interest  were in a favourable condition in 2016, compared with 44 per cent in 2003."

The brochure continues: "In response to the issue, the government has altered its application and funding arrangements for the Community Stewardships Scheme, encouraging more environmentally-friendly land management practices to enhance the breeding and foraging opportunities for birds, pollinating insects and other wildlife. 

"As part of its Single Departmental Plan, DEFRA has committed £100-million into a range of projects to support the natural environment, including schemes to remediate contaminated land, restore important peatland habitats and increase woodland planting." 

Delegates from local authorities, environmental groups, third sector organisations and other key stakeholders will seek to identify priorities for achieving biodiversity and conservation targets. 

The events  will also enable all delegates to share examples of  best practice in protecting vital habitats and decreasing biodiversity loss in local areas.
Between them, they will be invited to:

• Examine the impact of the new Community Stewardships Scheme in promoting and protecting biodiversity
• Review the Biodiversity 2020 Strategy and discuss ways to boost Natural Capital 
• Discuss the challenges posed by Brexit and how the UK can maintain equivalent environmental standards
• Explore ways to increase public awareness and understanding of the impact of biodiversity loss and increase engagement in conservation projects
• Review the State of Nature Report and examine measures that best protect wildlife and natural habitats across the UK
• Consider Agri-Environment Schemes with flexibility to meet local and regional environmental needs
• Develop methods for encouraging increased integration and collaboration between public bodies at the local level
• Scrutinise the role of local authorities in supporting biodiversity projects and providing expertise for communities
• Scrutinise  innovative financing instruments for developing new biodiversity projects
• Share best practice in promoting and protecting biodiversity at the national and local levels 

The symposium  is being held at the Park Plaza Hotel at Westminster Bridge London on Thursday May 3.

More details from: https://www.publicpolicyexchange.co.uk/events/IE03-PPE