England’s Highly Preserved Natural Region Facing Decline, According to Recent Findings | Wildlife Conservation Report

England is experiencing a decline in effectively protected areas for nature, according to data from the largest group of wildlife organizations in the country. Despite the government’s pledge to safeguard 30% of UK land and sea for nature by 2030, only a small fraction is currently well-protected, far below the needed 6% nationwide average. The state of conservation has deteriorated, with 33% of protected sites currently in good condition, down from previous years. Wildlife and Countryside Link, who conducted the study, emphasized that these decreases are due to deteriorating conditions rather than shrinking protected areas. Criticism has also been aimed at Labour ministers for the planning and infrastructure bill, which weakens legal protections for nature, potentially jeopardizing 5,000 nature sites. The Wildlife and Countryside Link CEO, Richard Benwell, stated that the UK stands a significant chance of missing its conservation target if urgent action isn’t taken, stressing that protecting biodiversity is critical for both the environment and the economy. He suggested that meeting the goal will require a significant effort, including expanding the number of protected areas and improving management of existing ones.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/sep/10/area-of-england-well-protected-for-nature-is-in-decline-data-shows