Green Party councillors call for ecological emergency to be recognised in Oxfordshire
Oxfordshire County Council has recognised an ecological emergency across the county following a motion put forward by a Green Party councillor.
The motion, presented by Cllr Emma Markham, was approved at a full council meeting on Tuesday, November 3.
It follows the council's previous support for the Climate and Ecological Emergency Bill in 2020 and calls for the ecological emergency to be recognised and taken into account in all aspects of the council's future work.
Speaking during the debate, Cllr Markham, who represents Shrivenham, said: “As someone from a farming background representing a rural community, I know that productive agriculture depends on healthy soils, clean water, pollinators and thriving ecosystems.
“Yet these natural assets are under increasing pressure. The UK is one of the world's most nature-depleted countries. Declining insect populations threaten crop production, increase costs and weaken food security.
“This is not just an environmental concern. Food is now recognised by the UK Government as Critical National Infrastructure, highlighting the importance of a resilient food system.”
Cllr Markham's motion argued that restoring nature could help support long-term economic prosperity through better farming, improved food security and a healthier environment.
She added: “Communities across Oxfordshire know the impact of flooding all too well. While traditional flood defences remain important, nature is some of the most effective infrastructure we have, slowing water, reducing flooding and strengthening community resilience.
“This motion is not about choosing between nature and economic growth. It is about recognising that long-term prosperity depends on restoring the natural systems that support it.
“By recognising an Ecological Emergency and making nature recovery a strategic priority, we can help build a more resilient Oxfordshire, with stronger farming, better food security, lower flood risk and a healthier economy.”
The motion also called on the council to support the proposed Nature and National Security Bill, which aims to restore habitats, increase biodiversity, protect pollinators and strengthen ecosystem resilience.
It also urged the council to work with partner organisations, farmers, landowners, communities and environmental groups to deliver nature recovery across Oxfordshire.
The motion was passed with most councillors supporting it, while the Conservative and Independent Group abstained.