Meriden MP, Caroline Spelman, has given her support to the Green Alliance’s campaign ‘Pledge for the Environment’, to raise awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy, sustainable and rich environment following the result of European Union referendum.
Currently the UK’s natural environment is protected by a number of European Union regulations. Included within these regulations are measures which protect rare or declining species of animals, regulate the disposal of commercial waste, tackle noise pollution and water pollution, and encourage the growth of sustainable energy sector. However, following the vote to leave the European Union, there is an opportunity for the UK to enhance its global contribution to the environment, and to introduce new appropriate legislation to the benefit of the rural economy and much of the UK’s natural wildlife.
The Pledge states:
I believe that following the EU referendum, the UK government, working with administrations in Belfast, Cardiff and Edinburgh, must build a healthy and prosperous future for all. This means a thriving natural world on land and at sea, clean air and water, communities connected to nature, and a sustainable economy.
For the wellbeing of my constituents, for people at home and abroad, and for future generations who will depend on a flourishing and secure planet, I will do everything in my power to:
Establish the UK as a world leader on the environment by committing to match or exceed current environmental, wildlife and habitat protections.
Ensure the UK leads on climate change by publishing robust low carbon investment plans and ratifying the Paris Agreement this year.
Create a countryside richer in nature by supporting farmers and landowners to deliver environmental benefits alongside a thriving farming sector.
Caroline Spelman said: ‘I am delighted to be able to lend my support to the Green Alliance’s campaign to establish the UK as a world leader on the environment and to create a more sustainable and richer planet.
‘The United Kingdom is already a global leader on many platforms. As a former environment secretary, I have first-hand experience of international negotiations and understand the scope of the challenges that face us as we work to protect the environment. Nevertheless, I strongly believe that the UK should not shy away from its responsibility and will work to encourage the Government to lead other nations as we work in partnership to build a healthier, more sustainable planet.
Green Alliance is a charity and independent think tank focused on ambitious leadership for the environment. The Pledge is an initiative of collective charities including the WWF, RSPB, Campaign to Protect Rural England and World Wildlife Trust. Including Mrs Spelman, the pledge has been signed by over 50 cross party MPs.