A report from an independent watchdog warning of looming environmental ‘tipping points’ in the UK shows the Government is “long on talk, completely lacking in action” in tackling nature and environmental decline, according to Metro Mayor Dan Norris.
The first report from the Office for Environmental Protection, set up in 2021 to hold the Government and other public bodies to account, says existing laws are failing to slow the damage to land, air and water.
Among the issues identified are the state of England’s inland rivers and waterways. They face pollution from sources including agricultural runoff and discharges from sewage treatment works.
Of even greater concern are potential “tipping points”, where gradual declines become irreversible which include the loss of wildlife, depleted fish stocks and polluted rivers, the watchdog said.
Responding to the report, Metro Mayor Dan Norris said:
“This report from the Government’s own environment watchdog sums up the Tories’ lack of meaningful progress in tackling catastrophic environmental decline. Long on talk, completely lacking in action. Meanwhile irreversible tipping points loom.
“Thankfully, the West of England Combined Authority I lead is getting on with the job of fighting the climate crisis and supporting nature’s recovery. Our new climate plan includes really ambitious targets for new spaces and habitats for wildlife and improvements to air quality. We’ve also launched the region’s first-ever Bee Bold Awards to showcase those organisations working to support our pollinator heroes.
“But crucially, the Government needs to play its part. Our environment cannot continue paying second or third fiddle to whatever self-created scandal Downing Street are facing. The steps outlined in this report provide a strong framework to reverse nature’s decline, if only the Government stop dragging its feet”.
NATURE LOSS: ENVIRONMENT WATCHDOG REPORT SHOWS GOVERNMENT DRAGGING FEET ON CLIMATE CRISIS, SAYS METRO MAYOR
