Green thinking key to recovery

Creating a strong green economy which is resilient to climate change is at the heart of Defra’s contribution to economic recovery, Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman announced today.

Spelman was joined by the Prime Minister, David Cameron, to publish the Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs Structural Reform Plan, which sets out how Defra plans to ensure that economic growth, protecting the environment, and enhancing the competitiveness of the whole food chain are inextricably linked.

Defra’s Structural Reform Plan (SRP) lays down three departmental priorities to support and develop British farming and encourage sustainable food production; help to enhance the environment and biodiversity to improve quality of life; and support a strong and sustainable green economy, which is resilient to climate change.

Spelman said: “The coalition government has pledged to be the greenest government ever. That means making sure we have the greenest economy ever.

“Businesses, communities, and individuals need to be supported to innovate and invest, use resources sustainably, and reduce waste, so that the economy is resilient to climate change.

“The food and farming industry, from the farm to the plate, has demonstrated its ability to withstand economic shocks and will be a pillar of the new green economy, so it is vital that we do what we can to enhance its competitiveness.

“And our quality of life remains paramount. So we will do all we can to enhance and protect biodiversity and our marine environment, and strengthen the rural economy.”

Structural Reform Plans set clear priorities and measurable milestones for every department, allowing people to check on how departments are meeting their commitments.

Defra’s SRP also sets out a series of actions to achieve these priorities.