Government Publishes Progress Report on 25 Year Environment Plan for England

The UK Government has published a progress report on the implementation of the 25 Year Environment Plan for England for the year 2019-20.

Progress is measured against a range of indicators, including extent and condition of protected sites, abundance and distribution of priority species in UK and healthy fish populations. There are also indicators related to air quality, water quality, engagement with the natural environment and climate change, amongst others.

The area of woodland in England has increased, however there are short-term downward trends in the abundance and distribution of priority species in UK and species supporting ecosystem functions.

The Government has also committed to move from a focus on reporting activities to outcomes following recommendations by the Natural Capital Committee.