politics
March 18, 2026
England must destine 7% of land to nature and renewables to hit green targets, data shows
Government’s first published land use framework maps how land is used and how it can be adapted to meet changing needs
TL;DR
- About 7% of England's land is needed for nature, forests, and renewable energy to meet environmental targets.
- The new land use framework aims to balance housing development, nature protection, and food production.
- Housing developments will be encouraged near train stations, with requirements for incorporating natural features like ponds and wetlands.
- Farmers may be guided towards uses like forestry or wetland restoration with new incentives, but not coercion.
- Peatland restoration is a priority, and land use will be planned for climate change scenarios.
- The framework emphasizes food security as national security, safeguarding productive agricultural land.
- Nature recovery is considered a national priority, with a spatial map to identify critical natural assets.
- Farmers and environmental groups have cautiously welcomed the framework, highlighting the need for clear guidance and funding.
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