People across England are set to benefit from cleaner air, healthier waterways, and revitalised landscapes under a strengthened Environmental Improvement Plan.
Backed by hundreds of millions of pounds, the revised plan outlines an ambitious five-year roadmap to tackle the nature and climate crisis, improve public health, and support sustainable economic growth.
Communities will see improved air quality thanks to decisive action on fine particulate pollution (PM2.5) – a harmful pollutant linked to asthma, lung disease, and heart conditions. Under a new interim target, population exposure to PM2.5 will be cut by 30% by 2030 compared to 2018 levels, reducing pressure on the NHS and improving quality of life.
Nature recovery is at the heart of the plan, with a commitment to create or restore 250,000 hectares of wildlife-rich habitats by 2030 – an area larger than Greater London. This represents an increase of 110,000 hectares on previous pledges, supporting biodiversity and sustainable growth.
Key measures include:
- £500 million for Landscape Recovery projects, enabling farmers and land managers to restore nature at scale, reduce flood risk, and improve water quality while creating green jobs.
- £85 million for peatland restoration, improving water quality, reducing flooding, and enhancing public health through cleaner air and better access to green spaces.
- £3 million to improve access to nature in Public Forest Estates, including accessible bike trails and mobility equipment.
- The first-ever plan to reduce risks from ‘forever chemicals’ (PFAS), alongside a review of sewage sludge spreading rules.
- A new Trees Action Plan and measures to cut methane emissions, particularly from agriculture.
Emma Reynolds, Environment Secretary, commented:
“Our environment faces real challenges, with pollution in our waterways, air quality that’s too low in many areas, and treasured species in decline.
“This plan marks a step change in restoring nature. Our ambitious targets are backed by real action to cut harmful air pollutants, revive habitats, and protect the environment for generations to come.”
The government will also publish Environment Act target delivery plans for the first time, ensuring transparency and accountability. These actions build on wider efforts, including the reintroduction of beavers, ending bee-harming pesticides, and launching two National Forests.
Working with communities, farmers, businesses, and local authorities, the plan aims to deliver a greener, healthier, and more prosperous England for future generations.
Image credit: iStock
