Whitehall urged to do more to go greener

THE UK Government must take more urgent action to protect the environment and set its plans in law, campaigners have said.

Nature groups welcomed measures promised by Prime Minister Theresa May as she unveiled the Government’s 25-year plan for the environment, including extending the 5p carrier bag charge in England and encouraging plastic-free supermarket aisles.

But they warned more rapid and widespread action – particularly on climate change – was needed to protect the natural environment.

Despite promises from the Prime Minister that Brexit would not lead to a weakening of environmental standards, green groups warned new laws and an environmental regulator were needed to back up the plan.

Dr Richard Benwell, of Wildfowl and Wetland Trust, said taking the wrong path after Brexit could mean the environment faces irreparable damage, but the 25-year plan was a “big green signpost” the Government was aiming for a greener future.

But he said: “Before Brexit we need a strong UK environment regulator and green trade guarantees.

“Early in this Parliament, we need a powerful new Environment Act to set the plan in law.”

Tanya Steele, chief executive of WWF, said she hoped it marked a “turning point where we start restoring our environment rather than destroying it”.

“These commitments will only become a reality if they are backed by the force of law, money and a new environmental watchdog,” she warned.