HAMPSHIRE and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust has unveiled a new Business Pledge, in partnership with 14 leading regional businesses.

The pledge, highlighting the trust's collective commitment to an eco-friendly business approach and sustainable growth, was signed on September 17 by companies including Arcadian Consulting and Southern Co-op.

The initiative also aims at furthering national objectives for nature recovery.

The trust's Business Pledge details actions for nurturing sustainable growth and safeguarding the natural environment.

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It seeks to align business partners with the trust's objectives, and elicit affirmative action from the government and local decision-makers to secure policies supporting eco-conscious businesses and nature restoration measures.

The core elements of the pledge include acknowledgement of the relationship between nature conservation and economic resilience, alongside the creation of a nature recovery network, advocacy for nature-based solutions, and a commitment to clean water protection.

Debbie Tann MBE, chief executive of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, said: "Nature protection and recovery is not the enemy of economic growth and prosperity in our region; it is essential to it.

"We proudly launch the trust's Business Pledge, signed by leading local businesses and corporate partners, clearly illustrating the business community's support for doing the right thing and recognising nature's crucial role in underpinning and delivering economic growth and a more sustainable economy.

"We call on the new government and local MPs to take notice, and we look forward to engaging with them further on delivering the positive solutions needed."