Calling on MPs to be a voice for nature

13 May 2010

Mother and child reading at the Lodge nature reserve — Image: Jesper Mattias

The UK General Election is over and we now have a new Government – the first coalition since the Second World War.

The RSPB will engage constructively with the new Government to keep environmental issues high on the political agenda during these difficult economic times.

Time to change

Now is the time to move away from an economy based on fossil fuels – oil, gas and coal. We must move towards an economy that does not rely on exploiting natural resources far beyond their capacity to replenish what we take, to one where we use energy efficiently and harness the power of our natural resources – the sun, wind and waves.

We are calling on individual politicians and political parties to work together to cut waste and invest in nature:

To ensure that future generations inherit a countryside rich in wildlife. Nature is our most treasured asset, yet our actions are causing alarming biodiversity loss. EU subsidies that go to landowners and farmers should do more to protect wildlife or provide public services.
To ensure that a comprehensive network of marine protected areas is established. Now required by new legislation to safeguard our marine environment passed last year.
To ensure that threatened species are not lost forever. Just £16 million a year would help save 32 species of bird from extinction in the UK Overseas Territories.
To ensure the UK plays its part in saving tropical forests. A new approach to biofuels could help to save the rainforests instead of speeding their destruction.
To take action, both nationally and internationally, to stop climate chaos. Given the disappointments of the last year’s Copenhagen climate conference now is the time to renew our leadership.
To take action to create more opportunities for all young people to be inspired through nature. Nature excites, educates, and inspires young people, as well as contributing to their wellbeing, yet contact with nature is decreasing

We've produced a document providing more information on the six issues highlighted above. Please download it from this page to find out more.