With parliamentary elections approaching in Wales and Scotland next May, Buglife is pleased to publish dedicated Manifestos for Bugs, outlining key actions for invertebrate conservation in each nation.
Manifesto for Bugs: Scotland Manifesto for Bugs: Wales
While invertebrates face similar threats in both countries, there are distinct opportunities and needs that the next Governments in Scotland and Wales can take to halt nature loss, and reverse invertebrate declines.
Both Governments must:
- Recognise the rapid decline in insect abundance, as demonstrated by the Bugs Matter monitoring scheme.
- Pledge to restore sustainable populations of all invertebrates.
Governments must establish binding targets for nature recovery through primary legislation. These targets should be supported by fully resourced delivery plans and long-term funding commitments to tackle climate change, end sewage pollution, and protect 30% of land and sea for nature.
As well as achieving existing targets and pledges, halting nature loss and reversing invertebrate declines will require the actions and commitments listed below.
- Reconnect our landscape by filling B-Lines with wildflower-rich habitats.
- Set light pollution reduction targets.
- Reduce harm from pesticides and toxic chemicals.
- Restore freshwaters.
- Protect peatlands and Conserve coal spoil sites
- Dedicate new resources to save our most threatened species.
- Improve planning for invertebrates.
- Protect from invasive non-native species
Last month, we launched the Bristol Declaration with a clear message: UK insect populations are in crisis, and urgent action is needed. Over 80 organisations have united behind this call for change. Join the movement and support the declaration at buglife.org.uk/campaigns/the-bristol-declaration.
Download the full Manifestos for Bugs to read in detail the commitments the next Governments of Scotland and Wales must make to restore and ensure sustainable invertebrate populations.
Main Image Credit: One of the UK’s rarest bumblebees, the Great Yellow Bumblebee (Bombus distinguendus) © Jamie Boyle