A new approach is needed if we are to save nature. That is the stark warning by the Chair of Natural England Tony Juniper, as he launched a major new report on the state of our natural world.

Photo by Christian V

The State of Natural Capital Report, published by Natural England, provides a unique insight into the vital role that healthy nature plays in underpinning our economic health.

The report includes sections on ‘water security’ (benefits categorised as high risk) and ‘freshwaters and wetlands’ (high risk assets) and provides a comprehensive assessment of the state of our ecosystem assets, and the important role they play in sustaining us and the risks to society and the economy if the status quo is maintained.

The report makes clear the significant place nature has on the balance sheet with changes being felt in the economy now due to nature depletion, and the consequences already being seen in the reduction in access to nature. For example, pollination represents around £500 million of benefits in the agricultural industry with a decline in insect life threatening food supply. Elsewhere, the degradation of soils globally is causing carbon emissions to rise – equivalent to 36% of the annual global carbon emissions from fossil fuels – while more frequent extreme weather events are causing significant economic damage.

The report comes alongside a new risk register, which investigates the threats nature faces, and how they could impact on a range of policy areas, such as the push for net zero, climate adaptation, food security, water security and health, and setting out the actions that need to be taken to address these risks to nature and the benefits it provides.