The two candidates vying for leadership of the Conservative Party – Jeremy Hunt and Boris Johnson – have both indicated that they will put the environment high on the agenda.

And, a positive message about recycling policy and waste regulations under a new prime minister has also come from Defra sources with an assumption that environmental legislation, in part inspired by ‘Blue Planet’ will continue under the new PM.

Speaking at a Conservative Party environment network meeting early in July, Boris Johnson promised to advance Defra policy work. This is being seen as an important assertion for a range of sectors from tackling the illegal wildlife trade through to waste management, where a number of key policies are under development.

Mr Johnson also emphasised that green growth “meant jobs”. He said: “We should be unabashed about talking about the achievements we are making in the environment and the jobs that we are creating in the economy. There is massive scope for employment in green technologies of all kinds.”

The meeting also heard from Jeremy Hunt, current Foreign Secretary. Mr Hunt said: “I am incredibly proud to be part of a government which has legislated to reach net carbon emissions by 2050. This is an ambitious target but it is crucial we achieve it.”