Merseyside Legacy Drives 34 Animal Species to Extinction

Merseyside: The region is facing a serious biodiversity crisis. A recent report revealed that 34 animal species have vanished since 1989. This is largely due to the area’s industrial past, which has taken a toll on local wildlife.

Sefton Council recently met to discuss plans aimed at restoring the natural environment. They’re working with the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority to create a Local Nature Recovery Strategy. This strategy is all about bringing back the region’s lost biodiversity.

The plan focuses on mapping valuable habitats and reversing the decline in local wildlife. Sefton Council is on board with this initiative and is set to hold public consultations to gather community input.

Over the years, the UK has lost nearly half of its biodiversity, making it one of the most nature-depleted countries in Western Europe. In Merseyside, the situation is dire, with significant habitat loss since the 1980s. Many species that once thrived in the area are now considered locally extinct.

The Local Nature Recovery Strategy is a crucial first step in addressing these issues. It aims to improve air and water quality while also tackling climate change. The local authority believes that restoring the environment will benefit everyone in the borough.

Support for this initiative is coming from various organizations, and the mapping process is already underway. The first phase has identified key areas for biodiversity, and the second phase is set to kick off soon.

Public consultations are already happening, with more planned for February. Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram emphasized the importance of protecting these fragile ecosystems for future generations. He expressed hope that we might see the return of the beloved red squirrel population in the region.