The United Kingdom has committed to protecting 30% of its land and sea for nature by 2030, in alignment with international environmental agreements. This Policy framework, developed by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, outlines criteria and procedural steps necessary for achieving this conservation target within England. To ensure compliance with the 30by30 initiative, designated areas must demonstrate effective conservation measures that sustain natural habitats and biodiversity. The strategy emphasizes the importance of long-term environmental stewardship through protected area designations, legal mechanisms, and structured land management. Existing conservation sites, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest and National Nature Reserves, contribute toward the national target, provided they adhere to prescribed ecological standards. Further legislative integration is planned to streamline conservation efforts, incorporating policy instruments such as Environmental Land Management schemes and Biodiversity Net Gain regulations. The framework also proposes assessment procedures to verify land eligibility, distinguishing between protected areas and those qualifying as Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures. The regulatory approach includes monitoring mechanisms to ensure continued compliance with conservation objectives while promoting voluntary participation among landowners. To meet the broader policy objectives, the UK government will refine enforcement strategies and enhance cross-sector collaboration, ensuring environmental priorities align with food security, economic development, and climate resilience. Future guidance and reporting frameworks will be developed to maintain regulatory consistency and facilitate transparent assessment of conservation efforts across England’s landscape.
Title:
Policy paper - 30by30 on land in England: confirmed criteria and next steps.
Country:
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Type of document:
Policy
Date of text:
2024
Files:
Repealed:
No