Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 29
29
We recommend that the Government, in developing further its strategy for economic recovery, give greater...
Recommendation
We recommend that the Government, in developing further its strategy for economic recovery, give greater priority to strategic projects aimed at encouraging nature recovery. The Government should work with conservation charities to pilot the idea of a National Nature Service this summer to open up conservation opportunities. (Paragraph 188) Fiscal and financial incentives for a green recovery
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government is committed to a green recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The £80 million Green Recovery Challenge Fund has kickstarted a pipeline of nature-based projects to restore nature, tackle climate change and connect people with the natural environment, whilst creating and retaining jobs in the conservation sector. Across the diverse range of projects awarded at the first round of the Fund, up to 800,000 trees will be planted and more than 1,500 jobs and traineeships created or retained within the conservation sector. This includes landscape scale recovery projects across a mix of rural, urban and coastal landscapes. For example, the RSPB is leading a project to transform and restore habitat in coastal Kent to support species and improve climate resilience. The Woodland Trust will also conserve and restore over 60 ancient woodland sites across England. A number of projects focus on engaging communities and inspiring young people through nature restoration. For example, a project led by the Youth Hostel Association will work with National Parks and partners such as the Scout and Guide Associations, Outward Bounds Trust and Field Studies Council to engage and educate young people, supporting the creation of a ‘green workforce ‘ for nature conservation.