About us

We're the government’s adviser for the natural environment in England. We help to protect and restore our natural world.

Who we are

We were established by an Act of Parliament in 2006. Our purpose is to help conserve, enhance and manage the natural environment for the benefit of present and future generations, thereby contributing to sustainable development.

We have about 3,000 staff, and offices throughout England with a head office in York. See a map of our offices.

Our vision and mission

Our vision is ‘Thriving Nature for people and planet’.

We aim to achieve this through our mission ‘Building partnerships for Nature’s recovery’.

Priorities

We will transform our services and develop digital systems to make it easier for our people and customers to deliver for Nature. We will focus on the following priorities: 

  1. Drive Nature recovery at a greater scale and faster pace than before by supporting large scale projects and making it easier for landowners to get permissions for Nature positive change.  

  2. Tackle the root causes of Nature’s decline working with Defra partners to ensure cleaner air, clean and plentiful water, healthier soils and rich, productive seas. 

  3. Partner with planners and developers on “high nature; low carbon” houses, energy and transport infrastructure and introduce strategic solutions so development can also protect and restore Nature. 

  4. Support food security and sustainable farming, forestry and fishing through targeted advice and the right mix of public and private finance.  

  5. Shape better places for people to work and live by providing clear evidence and advice to our partners, using spatial plans for Nature as a framework for investment and joined up action.  

  6. Connect communities with Nature and create Nature close to people’s homes, ensuring everyone gains from the health benefits Nature can bring. 

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