Bath & North East Somerset Council declared an Ecological Emergency over the summer in response to the escalating threat to wildlife and ecosystems.

The declaration recognises the essential role nature plays in society and the economy and provides a statement of intent to protect wildlife and habitats, enabling residents to benefit from a green, nature rich environment.

Councillor Sarah Warren, joint Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, said: “I’m delighted the Council unanimously backed the motion to declare an Ecological Emergency. It is a sobering thought that 15% of the UK’s wildlife is now at risk of extinction. This is largely a result of a critical decline in biodiversity: the loss of habitats and the connectivity of habitats; the decline in pollinators that are crucial to food supply and a decline in the health and quality of soil. We must address these issues.”