Research and analysis

State of nature decline: challenges for the water environment

An overview of the state of nature decline challenge. Current actions, plus potential future actions and opportunities to support nature recovery.

• From: Environment Agency
• Published: 22 October 2021
• Last updated: 20 November 2025 — See all updates

Applies to England

Documents

State of nature decline: challenges for the water environment

ODT, 452 KB

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Details

This report describes:

• the state of nature decline challenge, the impact of key pressures and targets for recovery
• current and future actions, mechanisms and tools to support nature recovery

Published 22 October 2021

Last updated 20 November 2025 + show all updates

1. 20 November 2025

   Updated to reflect the latest challenge narrative for the state of nature decline, supporting the SWMI consultation.

2. 22 October 2021

   First published.