Pandemics and Environmental Degradation
Debate between Baroness Evans of Bowes Park and Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park
Wednesday 24th February 2021
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(3 years, 6 months ago)
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The Lord Privy Seal (Baroness Evans of Bowes Park) (Con)
That question is far too long. Can we hear from the Minister, please?
Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park (Con) [V]
My Lords, there is no doubt that increased risk of pandemics is just one of the many reasons why continued destruction of the natural world is so short-sighted and damaging to our long-term interests. Ecosystem degradation and habitat disruption can dislodge pathogens; it can also bring wildlife into closer contact with humans and livestock; and climate change can lead to shifts in wildlife vector ranges and is likely to increase the risk of future pandemics by driving the mass movement of people and wildlife. This is a priority issue for the UK Government.