IEMA calls for an ambitious Environment Bill that puts sustainability at the heart of the UK economic model - May 2019

IEMA responds to meeting with the Chancellor Phillip Hammond and Environment Secretary of State Michael Gove at 11 Downing Street about the call for an ambitious Environment Bill

IEMA calls for an ambitious Environment Bill that puts sustainability at the heart of the UK economic model

Speaking after meeting with the Chancellor Phillip Hammond and Environment Secretary of State Michael Gove at 11 Downing Street this morning IEMA’s Chief Policy Advisor Martin Baxter said:

“It is vital that the UK sets an ambitious long-term objective for protecting and improving the environment as we leave the EU.The Environment Bill is a one-off chance to create a coherent framework to put sustainability at the heart of our economic model and enable all parts of society to plan invest and collaborate to substantially improve the environment on which we and future generations depend.”

IEMA has been working with a wide range of stakeholders as part of the Broadway Initiative to develop an ambitious Environment Act as the UK leaves the EU.Blueprint for a new Environment Act sets out the key governance framework needed to create the conditions for society and the economy to improve the environment.It reflects the long-term nature of environmental challenges and their solutions and the interconnected nature of environmental social and economic systems.

The meeting provided the opportunity to ensure that IEMA members’ views are represented at the highest levels of Government.

IEMA submitted written evidence to the House of Commons Environmental Audit and Environment Food and Rural Affairs select committee pre-legislative scrutiny inquiries into the draft Environment (Principles and Governance) Bill.IEMA’s Martin Baxter also gave oral evidence to the House of Lords EU Energy and Environment committee inquiry into the draft Bill.