What is EIP23?

EIP23 is the first update to the 25-year environment plan which was published in 2018. EIP23 is a plan of action to halt nature’s decline by 2030 by targeting environmental issues and aiding the achievement of both national and international environmental commitments. It works towards 10 goals, based around the themes of clean air, clean water, responsible resource management, climate change mitigation, biosecurity, natural environment and wildlife.

Originally, the EIP23 wasn’t due for revision until 2028, but following the announcement of the rapid review on 30 July an update could be published before 2025.

What progress has been made?

EIP23 progress has been mixed and hard to measure – a point best illustrated by reviewing one of the successes of EIP23. The plan aims for at least 40% of England’s agricultural soils to be placed into sustainable management by 2028. Our analysis shows that 21.4% of England’s soils are currently under sustainable management, which is a good start, but there is a long way to go to meet the targets over the next four years. While on paper this seems positive news, the government is yet to develop a progress marker for this goal and we compiled our statistics using Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) soil management data. How can progress be tracked towards these goals if the progress markers don’t exist?

A target that is significantly behind is the condition of Sites of Special Scientific Interest, which is nearly 14% behind the government’s goal for 50% of the sites to be in “favourable condition” by 2025.

Additionally, the 2024 annual EIP23 progress report stated that 16% of species are threatened with extinction, and there has been a 69% decline of all species since 1970.

Why does EIP23 matter?

In short, it is vital the UK has a rigid plan for environmental action so global commitments, like the Paris Agreement, can be met. A recent report from the Climate Change Commission highlighted that although the government has made good progress on climate matters, this country will still fall short of meeting emissions targets. By launching a review of EIP23, the government could have a chance to reassess how it will meet its commitments to the environment, all while balancing food production and land conservation. 

Further information

Contact Jennifer Hawkes or Jon Dearsley