Open call for evidence

Expanding the role of the private sector in nature recovery

From:: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs
Published: 12 June 2025
Last updated: 13 June 2025 — See all updates

Applies to England

Summary

We're seeking evidence and insights on how to support and incentivise private sector investment in nature recovery.

This call for evidence closes at
11:59pm on 7 August 2025

Call for evidence description

This call for evidence seeks evidence and insights on how best to support and incentivise business sectors to invest in nature recovery, especially those sectors which impact or depend upon nature the most. Specifically, it seeks views from businesses, investors, nature service providers (such as farmers and land managers), environmental organisations and the public on how government can work with business sectors operating in England to:

use the most effective policy measures to increase business investment in protecting and improving the natural environment in England
secure the economic benefits of a healthy natural environment and of business innovation in environmental protection and improvement
identify and manage any risks for businesses, communities or consumers arising from increased business investment in the natural environment

The first section of the call for evidence sets out the key role of the environment in the government’s economic growth mission and the economic case for business investment in the natural environment. Views are sought on the cross-cutting principles and opportunities that could govern policy development to increase this investment.

The second section seeks views on increasing investment in specific environmental outcomes:

clean and plentiful water
nature-based carbon reductions
access to nature
flood management
sustainable land use and food production
global nature

This is not a consultation and does not represent any firm decisions by government. Rather, it is the next step in an ongoing conversation. Responses will support the further development of policies to increase private sector investment in protecting and improving nature.

How to respond

Send written submissions to Nature.Investment.CfE@defra.gov.uk by 11:59pm on 7 August 2025. Submissions and statements supported by evidence will be particularly welcomed.

Documents