PFAS reduction and carbon storage take centre stage in UK’s new environmental roadmap

REDUCING PFAS exposure and expanding sustainable carbon storage are among the key goals set out in the UK government’s new “ambitious and deliverable” environmental improvement plan.

Delivered over the next five years, the plan aims to meet legally binding targets under the Environment Act, including reducing population exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) by 35% by 2040, and cutting nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment pollution in water bodies by at least 40% by 2038 compared to 2018 levels.

A previous version of the plan was published in 2021, but the new government says it lacked rigour. The revised strategy focuses on delivering ten long-term goals, including restoring nature and improving standards for air, water, chemicals and pesticides.

Across the five years, around £104bn (US$139bn) will be spent on updating the UK’s water infrastructure to meet these goals and a further £10.5bn on flood defences.

Environment secretary Emma Reynolds said: “Our environment faces real challenges, with pollution in our waterways, air quality that’s too low in many areas and treasured species in decline. 

“This plan marks a step change in restoring nature. Our ambitious targets are backed by real action to cut harmful air pollutants, revive habitats and protect the environment for generations to come.”

Air and water pollution

The government have promised to introduce a definitive PFAS reduction plan next year, including proposals for additional regulation, as well as improved guidance for the public and industry.

Further restrictions on specific PFAS groups – particularly those used in firefighting foams – may be introduced. The UK currently has no statutory standards for PFAS in drinking water, though an inquiry into future regulation was launched earlier this year.

PM2.5 remains the most harmful air pollutant to human health according to the World Health Organization (WHO) – responsible for an estimated 6m deaths annually. These fine particles typically consist of sulphates, nitrates, ammonia, black carbon, mineral dust and water, and are commonly emitted from industry and combustion sources. The plan says the government will “consult on further measures” to reduce domestic burning.

Restoring carbon

By 2030 the UK aims to restore a quarter of million hectares of wildlife-rich habitats and increase tree canopy and woodlands by 16.5%. Expanded forestry is expected to support the plan’s wider goal of scaling nature-based carbon storage.

The government has recently consulted on the development of voluntary carbon and nature markets to attract more private investment. The plan states: “Natural habitats provide carbon sinks and stores that are crucial for climate, biodiversity and nature. We must create, protect and restore our land to increase carbon sequestration.”

Industry response

Industry and environmental groups offered a mixed response. While welcoming the renewed focus on PFAS and air quality, many said the plan still “falls short” due to limited detail on how reductions will be achieved.

Scottish environmental group Fidra said: “Whilst we welcome these commitments to address ‘forever chemicals’, their effectiveness remains to be seen as we await further detail and clarity in the proposed 2026 PFAS Plan.”

Paul de Zylva, a nature campaigner at Friends of the Earth, added: “Without stronger enforcement against polluters, clear safeguards against environmentally damaging development and firm protections for the natural world written into planning and land-use decisions, nature will continue to decline.”