Bristol has become the first major city to declare an ecological emergency as wildlife numbers dwindle.
A 96 per cent decline of swifts in Bristol since 1994 and 15 per cent of wildlife species now facing extinction are just two of the reasons why our city is leading the way in stepping up measures to protect our natural world.
Today's announcement follows Bristol being the first city in the country to declare a climate emergency.
Plans to protect our wildlife will be rolled out over the coming year by both Bristol City Council and Avon and Wildlife Trust.
Priorities will include looking at ways to stop habitats from being destroyed, managing land in a sustainable way and creating wildlife-rich spaces in every part of the city and across the region.
But it's hoped the declaration will also inspire individuals and businesses to get involved.
Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol, said, “It is not too late to start the recovery of our wildlife. We must work together to grasp this last chance and put things right for nature and wildlife in our city.
“This declaration will provide a focus for the whole city to come together and take positive action.
“Our commitment to this will extend beyond parks and green spaces. We need our buildings, streets and open spaces to support wildlife and create a more nature friendly city, and we need new developments to do the same."
Leaders will look specifically at how to make our air and water cleaner.
Ian Barrett, chief executive of Avon Wildlife Trust, said: “The twin threats facing our natural world and our own lives – climate breakdown and ecological emergency – are now felt everywhere including in Bristol as we witness dwindling wildlife and the loss of wild spaces.
"We can’t wait for national governments or international bodies to lead the way – we have to show that through collective action we can make Bristol a city where wildlife can thrive and the natural world can flourish."
