Are conservation groups too conservative? Are they radical enough? Take part in our poll.
Are our conservation groups radical enough?
- Yes
- 8
- No
- 46
Conservation groups found themselves in the crosshairs recently from an unlikely source – someone on their own side.
Bodies such as the RSPB, the Wildlife Trusts and National Trust were castigated by popular TV presenter and environmentalist Chris Packham for sitting on the fence on certain subjects over fear of upsetting vested interests.
In a recent article, he said such groups were “hamstrung by outdated liaisons with the ‘nasty brigade’ and can’t risk upsetting old friends” in the rural and shooting communities over such issues as wildlife crime and grouse hunting.
Conservation groups have said Packham’s criticisms are baseless, while the pro-hunting lobby – in the form of the Countryside Alliance – went in for the kill, demanding the BBC sack the presenter.
But does Packham have a point? Are our major conservation groups and charities too tied up with vested interests to speak out on certain issues?
Are our conservation charities and bodies fit for purpose? Are they radical enough?
Vote now and feel free to get the debate going by leaving a comment below.
