Nature Recovery
The Problem
The UK is among the most nature‑depleted countries in the world, with just 53% of its original biodiversity remaining—placing it in the bottom 10% globally. On average species populations in the UK have dropped by 19% since 1970. Almost one in six UK species faces extinction (State of Nature 2023 - report on the UK’s current biodiversity).
Our Response
ICaN projects are designed with nature’s recovery in mind:
- Assessing existing habitats and identifying opportunities to enhance and enlarge them.
- Improving connections with similar nearby habitats so species can expand their territories.
- Improving other and introducing new habitats to deepen biodiversity and create a stronger, more resilient ecosystem.
Why It Matters
Scientists warn we are entering Earth’s sixth mass extinction, this time driven by human activity (A looming mass extinction caused by humans - BBC Future). By acting together, we can restore nature, creating healthier more climate resilient places for wildlife, and for people to live, work, and play.
Key Stats
“Almost one in six UK species faces extinction.”
“House Sparrow populations fell by 71% between 1977–2008.”
“Since World War II, 98% of wildflower‑rich meadows have been lost, contributing to the loss of more than half of the native flowering plant species.”
“43% of birds, and 31% of native amphibians and reptiles are at risk and classified as threatened.”
“If current extinction rates persist, 75% of all mammal species could vanish within 300 years.”