Devon steps up action to protect nature

Devon County Council is stepping up its efforts to protect and restore nature, with councillors given an update on progress across the county.

A new Biodiversity Duty Report sets out how the council is meeting its responsibilities under the Environment Act 2021, showing the steps being taken to support wildlife and improve natural habitats.

Covering the period from January 2024 to December 2025, the report will now be submitted to the Government.

It highlights a wide range of activity already underway — from planting new woodland and improving country parks to managing canals and highways in more wildlife-friendly ways. Work is also ongoing to support projects that enhance rivers, wetlands and green spaces, alongside partnerships with local communities and organisations.

The council is also playing a key role in developing the Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy, which will help shape how nature is restored across the county in the years ahead.

Importantly, the report makes clear that protecting biodiversity isn’t just the job of environmental teams — it runs across all council services, with progress set to be monitored as work continues.