Wildlife groups have criticized the UK government after it stated that bringing back extinct species such as beavers was no longer a priority. Charities have reintroduced animals and plants over recent years as part of efforts to revive the nation’s biodiversity. One in six UK species is at risk of extinction, according to a recent report. Farmers and wildlife charities have sought to reintroduce extinct or rare species into England. The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, a group of cross-party MPs, previously concluded that the government lacked long-term plans on managing this.
The government has now stated that the reintroduction of species is not a priority. Instead, it is concentrating on reducing pressures from pollution, and on restoring habitats. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has faced criticism for doing too little to prevent pollution in England’s rivers. More than 60 conservation organisations have reported a significant decline in species due to climate change impact and expanded farming over the past year.
Sir Robert Goodwill, chair of the Committee, expressed disappointment at the government’s response, highlighting that species were already being re-introduced. Reintroducing wildlife must be a part of the UK government’s strategy for tackling climate change and nature loss, said Joan Edwards, director of policy at The Wildlife Trusts, adding that there is clear evidence of the positive impact made by beavers, in particular.
During an interview with the committee, environment minister Thérèse Coffey stated that she had had to prioritize and that species reintroduction was not a top priority. Without implementing the measures the committee recommended, the government may have to spend more funds compensating farmers for crop damage from reintroduced species or flooding of homes, responded Sir Goodwill. The committee called for a list of priority species for re-introduction, proper management plans, and better community engagement for those living and working close to new species
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