Urban development and intensive farming have contributed massively to the decline of Britain's wildlife over the past 100 years - but we now have a chance to turn this around. We can create a better future for our wildlife and wild places and ensure they are here for future generations.
In an unprecedented move, the Government is asking people what they think about the future of both national planning policy and farming policy, with two consulations running at the same time.
The rules that guide planning and farming have a huge impact on our wildlife. We now have an opportunity to influence the future of nature in England by responding to both consultations, open until Tuesday 8th May (farming) and Thursday 10th May (planning). If you would like to take part we have prepared some guidance on what specific changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the Agriculture Command Paper we and The Wildlife Trusts are demanding.
What you can do to help
We need all supporters of wildlife, including the farmers and developers who are on wildlife's side, to respond to both the planning and farming consultations and ask the government to prioritise the needs of future generations and our natural world.
This is a rare chance to ask for a much more visionary approach to the environment – for each of us to call for farm support and planning regulations to move in the right direction, towards the recovery of our nature and wildlife.
1) How to respond to the consultation on the draft National Planning Policy Framework
2) How to respond to the consultation on the future of national farming policy
3) Tell your friends and family and encourage them to respond too - share this webpage on social media using the hashtag #ActSwiftly