1.2 Overview of the Environment
Summary and Key Issues
Yorkshire and Humberside is a large region, containing a rich variety of wildlife, landscape character, historic and cultural heritage. These combine to give the region a strong sense of identity and place.
The natural beauty of the region, together with its strong cultural identity, create an internationally important environment, of which the region can be justifiably proud. The natural, cultural and heritage resources of the region underpin the rural economy, as well as bringing social and environmental benefits.
Conserving and enhancing these natural and cultural resources is vital. They help to produce clean air, water, and food, as well as creating regional distinctiveness and economic wealth. In short, they contribute to a better quality of life for everyone.
However, development trends over recent decades, including the intensification of agriculture, have resulted in degraded wildlife, landscape and historical features, with serious reductions in biodiversity, and significant pressures on archaeological remains, soil and water quality.
Current action includes environmental designations, schemes and policies targeted at achieving sensitive management of existing habitats, landscapes and historical features, as well as some restoration work. For example, 107,965 ha of agricultural land are within some form of environmental agreement (i.e. Agri -Environment, Wildlife Enhancement, 5b and National Park Schemes). However, whilst funding is on the increase, it is limited and demand exceeds supply.
Nevertheless, by strengthening partnerships, developing new technology and creating opportunities within a changing rural economy, projects combining social, economic and environmental benefits are beginning to be created. For example capital and revenue funding has lead to: imaginative 5b land management projects, the UK`s first wood fuel power station, South Yorkshire Community Forest and heritage-led regeneration schemes, using historic buildings in market towns. All these provide examples of sustainable development and their principles should be developed and expanded.
Page last modified:
17 August, 2005
Page published: 1 October, 2000