Last Thursday, I had the opportunity to attend a key speech by Rt Hon Steve Reed OBE MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, on the Water (Special Measures) Bill. This new legislation is just the start of a wider transformation to restore the UK’s water system.
The speech highlighted a strong shift away from simply ‘offsetting’ environmental damage towards genuine nature recovery, which resonates with UKBBF’s emphasis on Nature Positivity.
Key points from the event:
• Polluter Pays: Water companies and other sectors will face tougher penalties for damaging the environment, including fines and potential imprisonment.
• Accountability Across the Board: It is not just a water company issue – sectors like agriculture, industry, and everyday lifestyles are all under scrutiny as part of the push to restore nature.
• Data Transparency: Real-time reporting of sewage spills will ensure independent monitoring and quicker action.
• Investment Opportunities: With the right frameworks in place, there is potential to attract much-needed investment to rebuild the water sector and meet 2030 environmental goals.
I had the chance to meet representatives from NERC, Unite, Rothschild & Co, Ofwat, WWT, and environmental campaigners like Chris Packham, whose insights were invaluable in shaping the discussion on the challenges and opportunities ahead.
For businesses, this will bring new responsibilities and an increased focus on monitoring and reporting across sectors. UKBBF is here to help businesses navigate these changes.
Join us to access guidance and a community of businesses working through these changes together. And let us know your thoughts in the comments, or feel free to get in touch directly.
Katherine Tubb
Managing Director, UKBBF