13 May 2020
Wildlife and Countryside Link welcomes the Government’s response today to the Environmental Audit Committee’s recommendations on tackling invasive species. Particularly positive is the Government’s commitment to exploring creating a Nature Volunteer Force and an inspectorate to boost biosecurity and public awareness on this damaging issue for wildlife and the economy.
Zoe Davies, Policy Lead at Wildlife and Countryside Link, said: ‘Invasive plants and animals cost our economy around two billion pounds per year and the price tag is set to soar with new post-Brexit trade routes and climate change opening the doors to more potential nature invaders. It’s welcome that the government is considering the EAC’s robust proposals on how to close the doors on nature invaders’ dual threat to our environment and our economy. Properly resourced biosecurity along with an engaged citizens’ army are essential to deliver an effective invasives’ line of defence, which can help make nature and our economy more healthy, and should form part of a green recovery after the covid-19 crisis.’
ENDS
Notes to editors:
1. Wildlife and Countryside Link is the largest environment and wildlife coalition in England, bringing together 58 organisations to use their strong joint voice for the protection of nature. Our members campaign to conserve, enhance and access our landscapes, animals, plants, habitats, rivers and seas. Together we have the support of over eight million people in the UK and directly protect over 750,000 hectares of land and 800 miles of coastline.
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