Signal Environment Act 2021 sets air, water, waste and biodiversity targets

Summary

The report cites the Environment Act 2021 as a key mitigation for pollution and environmental degradation. The Act gives legal backing through concrete targets covering biodiversity, waste, and the quality of air and water. The Clean Air Strategy 2019 aims to improve air quality and protect ecosystems by reducing emissions from transport, agriculture and industry. The Circular Economy Package seeks to cut waste and optimise resource use, reinforced by bans and taxes on plastic waste. The government's clean energy mission encourages investment in renewables, electric vehicles and carbon capture, helping to lower overall pollution. The report holds that less pollution means healthier plants and animals, better public health and less pressure on the health system.