25 Oct 2022

The UK Government upheld its long-standing opposition to commercial whaling at the 68th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) in Slovenia this week, advocating to uphold the moratorium that was agreed 40 years ago.     The United Kingdom also secured further support for the protection of whales, dolphins and porpoises (cetaceans) and has […]

25 Oct 2022

Natural England has just published several research reports to inform and support the sustainable development of offshore windfarms, contributing to economic growth and energy security.     This package of research will provide evidence that supports the government’s vision for 50GW of offshore wind by 2030, including 5GW of floating wind as included in the British […]

25 Oct 2022

A huge marine reserve in the Pacific Ocean has led to the recovery of tuna and other migratory fish around its borders. Carefully placed no-fishing zones can help to restore tunas and other large, iconic fish species, according to a study published in Science.     The Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument in Hawaii is almost four times […]

25 Oct 2022

In its first annual 30×30 progress report, Wildlife and Countryside Link (WCL) is calling on Government to send a clear international message that the UK will be a global leader in implementing 30×30. The 30×30 target is expected to be a key commitment in global nature talks at COP15 in Montreal in December.     The […]

25 Oct 2022

The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has issued a marine licence to the Virgin Orbit satellite launch project.     Virgin Orbit proposes to conduct a maximum of one launch in 2022 and approximately two launches per year over the next 8 years (January 2023-December 2030) from its base in Cornwall. The consultation on the marine […]

20 Oct 2022

Sir James Bevan, CEO at the Environment Agency, has told the House of Lords Industry and Regulators Committee that “population growth, climate change and public awareness have led us to where we are” with regard to ongoing problems with storm overflow sewage discharges. The Environment Agency Chief was appearing alongside Alan Lovell, Chair, Environment Agency […]

20 Oct 2022

The water quality in nearly half of Ireland’s rivers, lakes, and waterways is in “unsatisfactory” condition, with farming run-off in the south the culprit for much of the “alarming” deterioration. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has warned the further decline in water quality means Ireland is currently off course to meet the EU and national […]

20 Oct 2022

National Drought Group forecasts drought may remain beyond spring 2023.  Average rainfall levels over winter will still not be sufficient to avoid impending drought or drought conditions next year, the National Drought Group has forecast. At a meeting on 14 October, chaired by Environment Agency Chief Executive Sir James Bevan, members discussed projections for a […]