Natural England - What we do
What we do
“A healthy natural environment is really important to all of us. But it’s increasingly under pressure from climate change, pollution and the demand for land. Natural England play a vital role in conserving and protecting our environment and wildlife, and I wish them all the best in their work.”
Hilary Benn, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Natural England is the government’s advisor on the natural environment. We provide practical advice, grounded in science, on how best to safeguard England’s natural wealth for the benefit of everyone.
Our remit is to ensure sustainable stewardship of the land and sea so that people and nature can thrive. It is our responsibility to see that England’s rich natural environment can adapt and survive intact for future generations to enjoy.
We work with farmers and land managers; business and industry; planners and developers; national, regional and local government; interest groups and local communities to help them improve their local environment.
Our responsibilities include:
Managing England’s green farming schemes, paying over £300million/year to over 55,000 agreement holders
Increasing opportunities for everyone to enjoy the wonders of the natural world
Reducing the decline of biodiversity and licensing of protected species across England
Designating National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Managing most National Nature Reserves and notifying Sites of Special Scientific Interest
