After repeated warnings of continued failures from official watchdogs and nature charities, the new UK Government will undertake a rapid review of targets to cut waste and improve air quality, water and biodiversity.

Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary Steve Reed ordered the rapid review earlier this week and stated that it will be complete before the end of the year.

The review will assess whether the targets set out in the Environment Act and plans for their delivery detailed in the Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) are sufficient to meet the scale of the nation’s environmental challenges in line with science.

Granted Royal Assent in 2021 after a process delayed by Covid-19, the Environment Act includes an array of legally binding targets created to reduce waste, halt species decline, restore nature and waterways and enhance woodland cover. Marine conservation and air pollution are also covered, among other topics.