New independent analysis shows progress on some environment targets… but not fast enough!
BioSS worked with the Office for Environmental Protection to independently review how environmental change is measured, so the evidence stacks up.
BioSS partnered with the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) to independently review the statistical methods used to assess environmental indicator trends in their 2024–25 Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP) progress report. Our work helps ensure the trends and progress assessments are robust, transparent and statistically sound, providing a clear and reliable picture of change over time.
The latest OEP EIP progress report, published in January 2026, provides a detailed, data-driven snapshot of how the natural environment in England is changing and how government action is tracking against legally binding goals and commitments.
Google Earth comparison of the UK landscape in 1984 vs 2020.
What our report shows: Half of the environmental trends are moving in a positive direction (particularly air quality and greenhouse gas indicators), but in other areas, such as sustainably managed woodlands, there isn’t strong evidence for recent improvement, and the country is off track to meet statutory targets.
Why independent assessment matters: Our review isn’t about pointing fingers; it’s about ensuring that policymakers and the public have confidence in the evidence used to judge where progress is being made, where challenges remain, and where mitigation measures would be most effective.
Why this matters: OEP reporting highlights that without increased action, legally binding targets - including clean and plentiful water - are likely to be missed.
Further reading:
BioSS commissioned report: Developing statistical methodologies for analysing change and trends in environmental indicators | Office for Environmental Protection
Latest OEP Environmental Improvement Plan report for April 2024 to March 2025: https://www.theoep.org.uk/report/progress-improving-natural-environment-england-20242025
OEP report on the media:
BBC Radio 4 - Farming Today, Environmental Regulation, Cheese, Storm Goretti
The Guardian article: Government’s wildlife targets will be missed in England, watchdog says | Environment | The Guardian