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England's biodiversity targets are unlikely to be met unless the government intensifies action to restore nature, according to Tony Juniper, the chair of Natural England, who spoke to The Guardian.

Ministers are falling behind on meeting species abundance targets, which wildlife charities have criticized as "embarrassingly poor".

The government has a legally binding goal to halt the decline in species abundance by 2030 and increase wildlife abundance by 10% by 2042 in comparison to 2030 levels.

Juniper emphasized the need for expedited efforts to address the conflicts between farming and nature. This involves reconciling complex challenges such as attempting to maintain high levels of domestic food production while reintroducing wildlife into the landscape.

For the UK government to achieve the goals it set out for itself, Juniper stressed the importance of policy changes, increased knowledge, and cultural shifts, as he urged concerned parties to "go more quickly" if they want to meet their target.

In recent weeks, Juniper has faced criticism from nature campaigners for a trial scheme aimed at protecting hen harriers, a bird species vulnerable to persecution.

The trial involves taking eggs or chicks from hen harriers nesting on grouse moors and rearing them in captivity before releasing them back into the wild.

Despite the ongoing persecution of these birds by gamekeepers, Juniper intends to continue the trial to assess its effectiveness. If persecution persists, he may recommend stricter regulations on grouse shooting, similar to those implemented by the Scottish government.

The expert also expressed enthusiasm for reintroducing beavers in England, citing the positive environmental benefits observed in a Devon trial that concluded in 2020. Although beavers were hunted to extinction in the country 400 years ago, small illegal releases by activists have occurred.

Juniper believes the evidence supports licensing beaver reintroductions, but decisions on this matter lie within government rooms.

"We have reached the conclusion of Natural England that it would be right to license beaver reintroductions into England. And that we’re confident that can be managed in a way which would minimise risks to infrastructure and food security and to property. So we’re awaiting decisions from ministers on that, it will be their decision. We need to be given a clear signal as to the approach ministers would like to adopt, we believe the evidence is clear as to the benefits of beavers," Juniper said to The Guardian.

While wolves and lynx releases have been dismissed by the environment secretary, Therese Coffey, the head of Natural England, welcomed the debates sparked by these discussions. He believes it may be some time before wolves are considered, but many people are currently contemplating the reintroduction of lynx, particularly in Scotland.