Soil plays important roles in supporting agriculture, biodiversity, carbon storage and other services. However, human activities have resulted in soil degradation across much of the UK. Soil science is the study of the properties of soil to better understand how it can be managed sustainably. Some argue a need for increased provision of soil science education and for more research to close evidence gaps.
The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee published its report ‘Surviving drought: Reclaim the rain’ on 21 May 2026. It observed England was on course for a public water supply deficit of 5bn litres a day by 2055, before making 17 recommendations for the government. The government responded to the report on 14 July 2026, accepting 11 of the committee’s 17 recommendations, rejecting two and partially accepting four.
The House of Lords is due to debate a select committee report on the Malvern Hills Bill [HL] on 2 December 2026. This private bill, introduced in the 2024–26 session, would consolidate the law governing the Malvern Hills Trust and make some changes to the trust’s governance and powers. Following a high number of petitions against the bill, the committee made some amendments. The bill cannot progress this session unless both Houses agree to revive it.
![Malvern Hills Bill [HL] Committee: Special report](https://lordslibrary.parliament.uk/content/uploads/sites/2/2026/10/christopher-eden-CG7dtORZxrY-unsplash-1-1232x693.jpg)
In Focus
The UK produces most of its food but is dependent on imports for produce such as fruit and vegetables. Various government and independent reports have identified issues such as climate change and trade disruptions as potential food security threats. The Starmer government published a ‘Land use framework’ and a ‘Farming roadmap 2050’ that set out actions for the food and farming sectors to adapt to some of these challenges.
Research Briefing
The Microplastic Filters (Washing Machines) Bill [HL] is a private member’s bill introduced by Lord Randall of Uxbridge (Conservative). It would require new washing machines to have filters to capture microfibres, a form of microplastic shed from synthetic clothing. It would also impose a duty on the secretary of state to promote awareness of microfibre pollution. The bill’s second reading in the House of Lords is scheduled for 11 September 2026.
Research Briefing
The Nature’s Rights Bill [HL] is a private member’s bill sponsored by Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle (Green Party). The bill would recognise nature as a legal subject, granting it specific rights for protection and restoration. The bill would set out a legal framework for how this would operate, including an integrated rights framework and mechanisms for how nature’s rights would be implemented and enforced.
In Focus
Rural areas contribute a significant proportion of England’s economic output. The government has announced several policies intended to support growth in the rural economy, including farming. However, it has faced criticism for the delay in outlining its overall strategy for the agricultural sector. This briefing provides data on the rural economy and summarises government policy and stakeholder reaction
In Focus
In recent years, electricity prices for both households and businesses have seen significant increases. This briefing sets out how electricity bills are calculated, how much on average they cost and how they compare internationally. It also provides commentary on why prices have been so high and gives an overview of government policy in this area.
Research Briefing
This briefing explores what announcements the government could make in the King’s Speech on 13 May 2026 about energy, the environment and animal welfare.
In Focus
The draft Chemicals (Health and Safety) (Amendment, Consequential and Transitional Provisions) Regulations 2026 would make changes to three sets of assimilated regulations which concern chemicals in Great Britain. The government has said that the changes would rectify a number of issues that could not be addressed at EU exit. However, concerns have been raised about the potential impact on Northern Ireland, divergence from the EU, efficiency savings and further legislation.
In Focus
The government’s ‘Clean power 2030 action plan’ (December 2024) set out a transition towards clean, low carbon electricity in Great Britain. This included plans to expand energy infrastructure and transmission networks. However, some MPs and campaign organisations have raised concerns about the impact of expanded network infrastructure on rural communities. To support local areas, the government is considering a proposal to introduce community benefits for low carbon energy infrastructure.
In Focus
The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Maritime Activities) Order 2026 would expand the UK’s emissions trading scheme to include the domestic maritime sector. The government states this supports its climate change and net zero policies. However, concern has been expressed by some about the potential financial impact on the industry and a possible increased impact on Northern Ireland compared with other areas of Great Britain.
In Focus
In September 2025, the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee held a short inquiry into waste crime. It argued the issue was critically under-prioritised and expressed concern that the Environment Agency had failed to pursue repeated reports of serious waste crime. The government has said that it is making reforms in this area and is investing in the Environment Agency.
In Focus
The government published a revised environmental improvement plan in December 2025, containing updated targets and government commitments for improving the environment. These plans and targets are required under the Environment Act 2021. The government hopes the new plan will improve clarity on the actions to be taken to improve the environment. However, some have argued it does not go far enough to recognise the urgency of the situation.
In Focus
The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee has argued that policies governing nitrogen use and pollution in the UK need to be strengthened. It has called for better regulation, a ‘circular approach’ to nitrogen management (based on more efficient use and recycling) and a more coordinated strategy on nitrogen pollution. This briefing highlights some key points from the committee’s report and the government’s response to it.
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