Biodiversity Loss 2021-10-28
2021-10-28
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
No specific event or incident is mentioned, but the question follows a broader concern about biodiversity loss.
What steps he is taking to prevent further biodiversity loss. The Environment Bill aims to protect and restore nature with substantial funding and incentives. Internationally, efforts are made under COP26 for an ambitious global biodiversity framework.
Our Environment Bill includes world-leading measures with substantial funding to protect nature, aiming to halt species decline by 2030. Internationally, we are leading in developing a new global biodiversity framework under COP26.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific steps and commitments for preventing further biodiversity loss domestically were not detailed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Today is a memorial for Peter Ainsworth, Claire's predecessor who was involved with environmental committees and agencies. The question relates to the possibility of designating 'wild belts' to protect biodiversity across Surrey.
Will the Minister update on work conducted regarding the possibility of a new wild belt designation, which would protect biodiversity across the country? This is ahead of a virtual COP summit in Surrey tonight.
DEFRA is working closely with other departments on planning reforms that could improve environmental outcomes, including protections in urban and rural areas. The Government will publish their response to the planning White Paper in due course.
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Assessment & feedback
The question about wild belt designation was not directly addressed; instead, a general update on planning reform was given.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
No specific event is mentioned, but the question highlights the potential role of marine environments in climate mitigation through rewilding and protecting blue carbon.
What are the Government doing to scale up the rewilding of our seas for biodiversity and blue carbon at COP26? This issue could show global leadership by focusing on kelp beds, seagrass, salt marshes, and other marine environments rich in blue carbon.
We are working on protecting 30% of land and sea, gathering more data on blue carbon, linking flood resilience squads with restoration projects. Much work is ongoing to contribute to environmental outcomes.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific plans for scaling up rewilding of seas were not detailed; only general efforts towards protecting areas and collecting data were mentioned.
Response accuracy