Thousands demand that politicians “restore nature now”

Over 60,000 people marched to Parliament on Saturday to demand politicians “restore nature now”.

The march is thought to be the biggest public demonstration in the general election run-up. It was supported by over 300 charities and grassroots organisations as well as individuals concerned about nature, wildlife and climate issues. The coordinators included the RSPB, WWT, the Woodland Trust, Wildlife and Countryside Link, WWF-UK, the National Trust, Extinction Rebellion and Chris Packham.

The campaigners issued five main challenges to politicians:

• A pay rise for nature – the nature and climate-friendly farming budget should be doubled.

• Make polluters pay – new rules to make polluters contribute to nature and climate recovery.

• More space for nature – to expand and improve protected areas, and ensure public land and National Parks contribute more to recovery.

• A right to a healthy environment – an Environmental Rights Bill, which would drive better decisions for nature, improve public health and access to high-quality nature.

• Fair and effective climate action – increasing home energy efficiency, supporting active travel and public transport, and replacing polluting fossil fuels with affordable renewables.