The ‘National Estate for Nature’ will look to play a part in supporting the government’s environmental targets.

Made up of public, private and civil society landowners, the group as a collective own 10% of England’s land.

Its inaugural meeting chaired by Steve Reed, secretary of state for environment, food and rural affairs, is said to have marked the beginning of a new era in environmental collaboration.

Reed has called on the group to collectively protect and restore nature on their estates across England, saying they have a collective “responsibility to future generations to leave the environment in a better state“, as well as supporting the government in achieving its pledge to protect 30% of land by 2030.

He adds: “We have a unique opportunity to work together on common sense changes that create a win-win for nature, the economy, and make the best use of the land around us.”

He has also asked the group to report back on potential pilot approaches for sustainable land use, land management, change, or investment.

Chair of Natural England, Tony Juniper notes that to reverse the decline in nature, “urgent action at every level” is needed.

The National Estate for Nature is made up of, Environment Agency, Forestry Commission/Forestry England, Natural England, MOD, MoJ, DfT (including National Highways and Network Rail), MHCLG/Homes England, DESNZ, DfE, Cabinet Office, The Church Commissioners (Church of England), The Crown Estate, The Duchy of Cornwall, The Duchy of Lancaster, Elveden Estate, Clinton Devon Estates, United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, National Trust, RSPB, Wildlife Trusts and, Canal and River Trust.