1 in 3 Brits take NO action to support or protect local wildlife

Nearly a third of Brits are taking no action to support or protect wildlife in their local areas, despite widespread concern over the decline of species across the UK.

New survey findings in the British Wildlife Insights 2025 report by Arbtech show that while 88% of the population are concerned about the ongoing reduction of wildlife in the UK, a significant portion of the public is not actively engaging in efforts to reverse this worrying trend.

The data shows simple actions that could help safeguard the nation’s wildlife, such as leaving out water and food for animals or supporting wildlife charities, are being overlooked.

Arbtech’s survey of 2,000 respondents in the UK found that only 40% of the population leave out food and water for wildlife, with a slightly lower 39% gardening in a wildlife-friendly way, such as planting pollinator-friendly flowers and avoiding harmful pesticides.

In addition, only 32% of respondents provide shelter for animals, like hedgehog houses and bird boxes, to support local wildlife.

While 20% donate to local wildlife charities, just 15% take part in conservation activities, including volunteering or reporting wildlife sightings, showing a relatively low level of active engagement.

Interestingly, 19% of people expressed a desire to take action but currently don’t, suggesting a willingness to help if given the right guidance or opportunity. However, another 13% admitted they take no steps to protect wildlife and have no plans to do so in the future.

This is despite nearly 9 out of 10 people expressing concern about the decline of wildlife in the UK, which highlights a concerning disconnect between concern and action.

Abrtech’s report highlights growing concerns about British wildlife, as habitat loss and climate change continue to threaten many species and as a result the UK is now one of the most nature-depleted countries on Earth.*

It also reveals how elusive some species have become and underlines the need for UK households to do more to support local wildlife.

Commenting on the report, a spokesperson for Arbtech said: “These statistics reveal a troubling disconnect between the widespread concern for wildlife and the lack of action being taken to protect it.

“While it’s encouraging that so many people are aware of the decline of species, it’s clear that more could be done on an individual level.

“Simple actions like providing food, water, and shelter for wildlife, as well as supporting local conservation efforts, can make a significant difference.

“The fact that nearly a third of people aren’t actively engaging in these efforts, despite their apparent concern, shows how important it is to raise awareness and empower people with the knowledge and resources to help protect the wildlife in their own backyards.”

Arbtech is the UK’s leading ecology and BNG consultancy. Established in 2005, the company has earned a reputation for its commitment to transparency, reliability, and speed in delivering solutions that help clients secure planning consent quickly and with minimal hassle.

With a team of experts strategically located across England and Wales, Arbtech is dedicated to providing exceptional service and building lasting relationships with its clients.