Be a Voice for Nature in the 2009-2014 European Parliament

The numerous challenges Europe faces appear divergent. But many economic and social problems are closely linked to the environmental crisis. Often MEPs have been at the forefront of improving our environment and encouraging sustainable economic activity. And indeed, evidence shows that is what Europe’s citizens expect from the European Parliament.

Yet there is much to be done to ensure we remain the world leader in building a more environmentally-friendly society that works within the planet’s means.

I pledge to be a ‘Voice for Nature ‘ in the European Parliament.

If elected I will help:

1. Restore our ecosystems
All economic activity is underpinned by functioning ecosystems, and the vital services they deliver. Robust EU nature conservation standards, like Natura 2000, form the basis for the protection of our environment, and have to be strong and better implemented in the future. We need nature as our ally in times of climate change.

2. Make agriculture healthy
The Common Agricultural Policy is in need of change. European farmers should be rewarded for producing public goods, such as a healthy, wildlife-rich environment, rather than receiving untargeted subsidies.

3. Fight climate chaos
The next five years will make or break our approach to climate change. MEPs must be the vanguard of an ambitious and fair new global climate deal. Energy solutions must work with not against our ecosystems and wildlife.

4. Champion healthy seas 
Eighty-eight percent of European fish stocks are overfished, thousands of seabirds die after being accidentally caught by European fishing vessels, and marine ecosystems face imminent collapse. Yet only healthy seas, exploited in tune with nature, can deliver productive fish stocks and a buffer against climate change.