Expert Warns: Current UK Conservation Efforts Fall Short in Protecting Ants and Bees

The UK’s efforts to protect nature have come under fire. Experts say the government’s targets are so weak that we could lose all our bees, wasps, ants, and moths, and still meet those goals.

Natural England has a red list that tracks species at risk, but it misses many important insects. The government admits these lists are incomplete. They don’t cover key groups like moths and various insects.

Recently, the government informed a science committee that there are no plans to expand these lists due to a lack of data. Chi Onwurah, chair of the committee, expressed concern. She highlighted how vital insects and invertebrates are in both natural and farming systems. Without monitoring their populations, the UK could claim to protect nature even as these crucial species disappear.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) responded, stating that just because a species isn’t on the official lists doesn’t mean they’re not taking action to protect it. However, this reassurance doesn’t alleviate the worries about the lack of monitoring.

The committee also sought updates on the national action plan for pesticide use. The first plan debuted in 2013, and revisions were due in 2018. Now, it’s seven years late. While Defra claims they’re working on this, they haven’t confirmed if pesticide reduction targets will be included.

Environmental advocates like Vicki Hird from the Wildlife Trusts are pushing for quicker action. She stresses the need to address the serious decline in insects, which are essential for many ecological functions. More support is necessary for farmers who want to help beneficial insects, and the overdue pesticide plan cannot wait any longer.

Buglife, another charity, applauded the government’s acknowledgment of declining insect populations. However, they emphasize the urgency of understanding and tackling the root causes of this decline. Insects are crucial not just for pollination but for maintaining healthy ecosystems. Without them, we can’t truly halt the loss of nature.

They urge the government to take ambitious actions that go beyond a limited view of biodiversity. Issues such as light pollution, fragmented habitats, and the effects of common chemicals need immediate attention to protect these vital species and the wider environment.