Government to hold review in bid to meet Environment Act targets

The Government is to carry out a rapid review of the Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) to be completed by the end of the year.

It said it would develop a new statutory plan to protect and restore the natural environment with delivery plans to meet each Environment Act target.

This would focus on cleaning up waterways, reducing waste, planting millions more trees, improving air quality and halting the decline in species by 2030. 

Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed, said: “Nature is dying. Britain is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world. Our animal species face extinction. Our precious landscapes are in decline. Our rivers, lakes and seas are awash with sewage and pollution. Air pollution continues to plague our towns and cities 

“Nature underpins everything – the economy, food, health and society - but we stand at a moment in history when nature needs us to defend it.  

“That is why today we begin to chart a new course. Working with civil society, business and local government, we will develop an ambitious programme to turn the tide and save nature.” 

He said the Government was committed to protecting and restoring nature and delivering the Environment Act targets, including Labour manifesto promises to expand nature-rich habitats such as wetlands, peat bogs and forests.

Mark Smulian