24/01/2024
Introducing Environmental Conversations. In this series, we will explore topics surrounding nature, environment, sustainability and climate. Starting the series, we'll look at actions taken within the 30 by 30 Pledge to combat climate change and protect our green spaces and oceans.
The 30 by 30 pledge was agreed in December 2022 at a COP15 meeting promising to protect a third of their land and oceans for nature by 2030. The extended nature conservation efforts were proposed as one of the means to help mitigate climate change. With only 7 years to go, how has the UK managed against the ambitious target?
In truth, not a lot of progress has been made and the target will not be reached by 2030 if we remain on the current trajectory.
In the ‘2023 Progress Report on 30x30 in England’ issued by the Wildlife and Countryside Link (WCL), we read that currently only 3.11% of land and 8% of our sea is protected for wildlife - a long way from what is required to reach our target.
The WCL also contacted DEFRA, the government department responsible for action on the pledge, asking for evidence that progress is being made but they’ve had no response.
Elsewhere, in an assessment of the UK’s nature habitats and species, the ‘State of nature’ report, it was found that only one in seven of the UK’s habitats for wildlife are in good condition, including only 7% of woodland and 25% of peatland.
However, there are some small steps being taken.
An Environmental Improvement Plan is being implemented in England. This plan aims to restore 500,000 hectares of wildlife habitats across England and also wants to ensure that everyone is within a 15-minute walk of a green space or water.
Are we on track to meeting the 30 by 30 target? It looks like we still have a long way to go. Some progress is being made and it seems that intentions are there to make more happen but only time will tell if we can hit our target.
What nature conservation initiatives would you say have led to the most significant change in 2023?
