Election result message from our CEO Sandy Luk
1 minute read
The country has spoken. It has given Keir Starmer and the Labour party a mandate to be the UK’s next government. At the same time, the public has also given the new government a very strong steer on green – and blue – issues, showing that the health of nature, climate and ocean matter, for our physical and economic wellbeing.
This means turning the tide on the pollution affecting our ocean, starting with the sewage entering our rivers and seas and investing in sustainable economic growth that helps to restore and enhance our depleted seas.
I can only echo the message of our Director of Conservation and Policy, Gareth Cunningham:
We welcome the ambition to become a global leader on climate and nature action. A healthy ocean is our strongest ally in combating climate change.
The time to act is now. Restore our seas and enact our five quick wins outlined below:
- Optimise the marine planning system to deliver offshore wind while restoring and enhancing our marine environment
- Tackle the growing issue of forever chemicals, beginning with the immediate ban of PFAS from fire-fighting foams
- In delivering our 30x30 commitments, unlock the true potential of our blue economy, publishing a strategy for sustainable blue jobs and economic growth
- Lead global efforts on climate change by continuing, and increasing, vital financial support to the UK Overseas Territories marine conservation programmes, including the globally renowned Blue Belt Programme and Darwin Plus.
- Accelerate target delivery of the Storm Overflows Discharge Reduction Plan, to protect our vulnerable Marine Protected Areas, bathing waters and shellfish waters.
