Speak up for Nature
The UK is classified as one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world and, despite this stark warning, the 2023 State of Nature Report highlights that nature continues to decline.
The wildlife we have is incredible, with many species found nowhere else on Earth. But decades of pollution and habitat loss have destroyed the places they call home and driven wildlife into chronic decline. The impacts of climate change are becoming more visible and nature, wildlife and people are suffering. Shockingly, 1 in 6 species in the UK is now at risk of extinction.
These findings are reflected in Kent too, with our own 2021 State of Nature in Kent report showing that 372 species are under threat of extinction, 79% of rivers are impacted by pollution and land under conservation management declined by 14,000 hectares in 2021.
Our mission is to increase wildlife abundance and climate resilience across 30% of Kent's land and sea but we can't do it alone, we need your help to create a #WilderKent.
What we're calling for
Kent Wildlife Trust, alongside leading wildlife organisations, is calling upon all political parties to drive the change needed and to commit to a plan that finally delivers 30 by 30 promises and works towards reversing these trends. We're asking MPs to Speak up for Nature this next parliamentary term.
Download the State of Nature report
Right now, people care more about the state of their natural environment than ever before. With a general election on the horizon, it’s time politicians heard that message. Kent Wildlife Trust has already been working in many of these areas. Find out more about our asks, our work and how you can help to create a Wilder Kent below.
Speak up for Nature
Join our mailing list to receive your very own #VoteWILD election toolkit, where you'll find out about:
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Your candidates
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Upcoming events including husting events in Kent where you’ll get to meet some of your local candidates
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Nature-focused information for your constituency
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Kent Wildlife Trust’s manifesto asks
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Social media tiles and posters to help you spread the #VoteWILD message
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Actions you can take to speak up for nature this election.
As well as staying updated on what's happening with our latest campaigns and find out how you can help us defend nature.
We are asking all parties to ensure...
Wildlife recovery is prioritised
In Kent, nearly 400 species are threatened and with the State of Nature in Kent Report highlights that all four native reptile species are in decline in the county, that there is strong evidence of a decline in Kent birds and bat populations in the area have declined in recent years.
Immense pressure from decades of pollution and habitat loss compounded by climate change has driven wildlife into catastrophic decline.
Incentivise wildlife-friendly farming
In Kent, we work with landowners and food producers through our farmer cluster network, to create a landscape that can sustain us and wildlife. By supporting farmers to shift towards regenerative, nature-friendly methods, farming has huge potential to deliver a green rural renewal.
Land, rivers and seas pollution free
The State of Nature in Kent Report states that levels of small particulate air pollution in Kent are double the World Health Organisation recommended annual average maximum limit, and that 79% of the rivers and lakes in the county monitored for phosphorus did not meet the required standard for good ecological status as set out under the Water Framework Directive.
Developments defend and restore nature, not destroy it
Kent’s population is growing at above-average rates and the county has some of the highest rates of house building in the UK with the number of vehicles on the county's roads increasing by 14.3% between 2006 and 2016.
Kent Wildlife Trust strongly believe that the next UK Government must solve the housing crisis and provide people with the homes they need. However, these homes should be built in the right places, in the right way.
How can you help?
Congratulate your new MP and ask them to work with Kent Wildlife Trust to deliver these 4 asks with the aim of reaching our 30x30 targets.