Context
The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world, with research from the Natural History Museum showing low biodiversity levels compared to G7 nations. The government faces criticism for authorising harmful practices like badger culling and neonic pesticide use.
Question
What progress has her Department made on its target to halt species decline by 2030? The UK is among the most nature-depleted countries, with poor biodiversity levels compared to G7 nations. Thousands of badgers are being killed unnecessarily; bee-killing pesticides and illegal hunting continue unchecked. The government missed a legal deadline for environmental targets. How can we trust them now?
Answer from Trudy Harrison
We are committed to halting species decline and have taken significant action such as creating or restoring habitats, establishing agreements with farmers on nature-friendly actions, and benefiting conservation status for multiple species. We also cite the Environment Act 2021, environmental land management schemes, £750 million investment in tree planting, improved air quality, water quality enhancement, and legal targets set forth in our environmental improvement plan.
Not addressed: The specific target of halting species decline by 2030 was not directly addressed with a timeline or commitment to meet the deadline
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