The Year of Green Action was originally proposed in the 25 year Environment Plan, published in January 2018 which sets out the Government’s plan for an improved environment.
It is a commitment to being the first generation to leave the environment in a better state than we found it.
25 Year Environmental Plan – goals
- Clean air
- Clean and plentiful water
- Thriving plants and wildlife
- A reduced risk of harm from environmental hazards such as flooding and drought
- Using resources from nature more sustainably and efficiently
- Enhanced beauty, heritage and engagement within the natural environment
In addition, we will manage pressures on the environment by:
- Mitigating and adapting to climate change
- Minimising waste
- Managing exposure to chemicals
- Enhancing biosecurity
The plan commits the government to take over 200 initial actions to enhance the environment, in England and internationally, with more to follow. Actions include:
- A pledge to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste, such as microbeads and straws
- Support for the development of a new Northern Forest
- A new statutory body to hold the government to account on the environment
- A nature recovery network to reverse the declines in wildlife
Action from all of us will be required to improve the environment over the next 25 years. Together we can improve the environment through collective action and better achieve our environmental aims.
What is a 'Green Action'?
This is one action that helps us to connect, protect and enhance the environment.
Connect
Improving people’s understanding of the state of the environment, the benefits a healthy environment can bring, and the effect of their actions on the natural world.
Individuals
- Take part in science projects to measure local wildlife populations
- Visit local green spaces and the coast
- Use a green gym
- Spend more time experiencing and learning about the natural world
- Learn to identify non-native species and report sightings
Organisations
- Support youth action
- Increase greenery in workplaces
- Take steps to inform employees of the value nature provides, including mental health
Protect
Helping communities and organisations to reduce their impact on the environment through greener decision-making.
Individuals
- Use energy and material resources more efficiently
- Make fewer car journeys by car
- Use peat-free compost
- Support the zero plastic waste agenda
- Understand what can, and can’t, be recycled
Organisations
- Examine your chain supply to reduce environmental impact
- Minimise the use of pesticides
- Increase the number of electric fleet vehicles
- Install water refill points
Enhance
Inspiring people to enrich the environment, encouraging individuals and organisations to actively improve their local environment.
Individuals
- Plant trees and pollinator-friendly flowers
- Take part in environmental volunteering activities such as litter picks and beach cleans
- Put up a bird or bat box
- Create a wildlife pond – even small bodies of water will attract frogs, news and dragonflies
Organisations
- Support green infrastructure by installing green walls and roofs
- Encourage volunteering days or funding of community projects
What can you do?
Make your own pledge. Ideas include:
- Walking to work/between campuses
- Walk more and drive less
- Switch to a 100% renewable green energy supplier
- Grow fruit and vegetables
- Use non-peat compost for planting
- Pick up any litter when out walking in the countryside or at the beach
- Try to buy goods that are not wrapped in plastic
- Take part in volunteering opportunities
For more information, see the Year of Green Action website.