Restore Nature Now: thousands to march in London calling for urgent action

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Guardian or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Thousands, including over 350 environmental groups, will march in London on Saturday to demand urgent action from the next government to address the nature crisis
• This unprecedented coalition includes mainstream groups like the National Trust and RSPB alongside hunt saboteurs and direct action activists

🔭 The context: Naturalist Chris Packham, who organized the Restore Nature Now march, criticizes political parties for their lack of substantial promises on biodiversity
• The march, featuring celebrities such as Judi Dench and Emma Thompson, aims to push nature restoration onto the political agenda despite minimal campaign focus on the issue

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Immediate and bold actions are crucial to tackle the biodiversity crisis, which underpins critical life-support systems
• Delaying restoration efforts will only increase the difficulty and expense of reversing environmental damage

⏭️ What's next: The marchers plan to send a clear message to political candidates about the importance of nature restoration and may continue protests if the next government fails to act decisively

💬 One quote: "At a time when we need bold and brave leadership, we’re not seeing any sign from any of the manifestos that that might materialise," said Chris Packham, naturalist and coalition leader

📈 One stat: The UK government committed to protecting 30% of land and sea by 2030, yet only 3% of English land is currently protected and well-managed for nature

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