This page gives an overview of the complex structure of environmental and cultural conservation in the United Kingdom.
With the advent of devolved government for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and of evolving regional government for England, the responsibilities for environment and conservation in the United Kingdom have become more complicated.
There follows a list of the legislation, conservation bodies (both governmental and otherwise), and conservation designations, which work together to conserve and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the UK. A list of 'objects of conservation' provides further links.
Some of the key legislation which governs conservation issues in the UK. This list is not exhaustive.
The following are Executive Agencies of the UK government and regional executives, with note on their areas of responsibility.
The following designations are established or monitored by the executive agencies listed above.