Important Legislation

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 is the principal legislation in England that relates to the protection of wild animals, plants and habitats. The Act governs the protection of certain species of birds, animals, plants and habitats and sets out the powers of the government to create protected areas and to make regulations to protect wildlife.

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The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CROW) extended the protection of wildlife to include access to the outdoors and responsible recreation. The Environment Act 1995 created the Environment Agency, which is responsible for the management of water, waste and land resources in England.

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The Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 created Natural England which is the Government’s adviser on the natural environment. The Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 established the Marine Management Organisation, which is responsible for the sustainable management of England’s marine environment. The Hunting Act 2004 bans hunting with dogs in England and Wales. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 places a duty of care on owners to ensure that their pets are adequately looked after.