UK nature is already in dire straits. This country is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world: 41% of species are in decline and 15% at risk of extinction. It’s hardly surprising when you consider that 97% of lowland meadows – home to wildflowers, mammals and birds – have disappeared, as have 80% of heathlands – and rivers are in deep trouble too.  

Here in Devon, however, recent experience has shown that the decline in species and habitats need not be inevitable and can be reversed. The brave and historic decision to close seas immediately around Lundy to fishing has seen marine life return and flourish. On land beavers have returned to the county’s rivers for the first time in centuries, creating the conditions for other wildlife to prosper – from water voles to kingfishers to dragonflies. In Exeter and Plymouth concerted campaigns have established city-wide networks of wildflower meadows which bring colour to people’s lives and an important nectar-rich resource to pollinating insects.

These initiatives show what is possible and how nature can return given the right conditions. However, the new target that the UK Government has proposed is too weak and unambitious – England would have even less wildlife in 20 years’ time than the much-depleted state that we have now.