Action needed to tackle 'biodiversity crisis'
The issue is part of wider concerns the government is not focused enough on the environment.
Jersey is facing a biodiversity crisis, with the government failing to prioritize environmental concerns, according to a scrutiny panel. The Environment Department needs more time and resources to produce a state of nature report, according to Willie Peggie, the government Director of Natural Environment. Piers Sangan, who runs Sangan Island Conservation, said a biodiversity crisis includes more invasive species, fewer native species, and a decline in the ecosystem.
Sangan claimed the government has been neglecting the environment, which is becoming quieter and less diverse. The Environment Minister, Senator Mary Le Hegarat, acknowledged the need to manage the countryside properly and address invasive species. The government is expected to release a state of nature report in 2027, which will inform a new biodiversity strategy.
Concerns about biodiversity have arisen as questions have been raised about the government's commitment to the environment. The draft Common Strategic Policy, which was supposed to include the natural environment, was criticized for ignoring it. The Jersey Climate Council suggested spending £10m per year to reach net zero by 2050, while the Climate Emergency Fund only allocates £4m.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Science's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
