Road verges have long been overlooked as potential wildlife corridors in the UK, but campaign group Nature 2030 is pushing for change with their new report, ‘Restoring a Green Britain.’ Supported by global charity Plantlife, the report highlights the importance of utilizing road verges to increase biodiversity and reverse the country’s decline in plant diversity.
With the new Labour government prioritizing nature recovery through the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the timing couldn’t be better for focusing on the potential of road verges. These areas make up nearly 45 percent of the UK’s total plant diversity and are home to 87 species threatened with extinction.
Recent research has also shown that damage to the natural environment is negatively impacting the UK economy, potentially leading to a 12 percent reduction in GDP in the coming years. This economic hit would be even greater than that of the financial crash or the Covid-19 pandemic.
The ‘Restoring a Green Britain’ report lays out a roadmap for councils to increase biodiversity in their areas, suggesting methods such as reducing mowing frequency and engaging with the community. By safeguarding the UK’s biodiversity, councils can play a crucial role in supporting nature recovery efforts.
Nature 2030 has a track record of successful campaigning, including the inclusion of a new Clean Air Bill in the Queen’s Speech in 2019. They are also set to host the Political Purpose Awards, celebrating UK politicians who champion environmental causes.
Plantlife, experts in creating wildflower-rich road verges and green spaces, have been instrumental in the research for the report. Their ‘Managing Grassland Road Verges – A best practice guide’ was recognized for knowledge sharing in 2020 by CIEEM.
Supporting the report, broadcaster and activist Chris Packham emphasized the importance of preserving essential habitats for the country to thrive. He called on councils to take action and implement the necessary changes to boost biodiversity in their communities.
Mark Schofield, Road Verges Advisor at Plantlife, highlighted the potential of road verges as wildlife corridors, noting their role in nature’s recovery and benefits for people. By unlocking this potential, road verges can become vital sanctuaries for over 700 species of wildflowers.
Nature 2030 Chair Dominic Dyer emphasized the urgent need to address biodiversity decline in Britain. The group aims to engage local communities, councils, and policymakers to promote urban rewilding and increase biodiversity in urban areas.
Nature 2030 is a campaign group run by Higginson Strategy, a purpose-led communications consultancy. The report emphasizes the value of increasing biodiversity and engaging with stakeholders to inspire action for nature conservation.
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