By Abbas Nazil
Renowned wildlife photographer, Margot Raggett, has raised alarm that the world could soon face landscapes devoid of wild animals as the climate crisis, habitat destruction, and government policies continue to threaten biodiversity.
Raggett, who has spent the last decade documenting and fundraising for conservation, expressed growing concern that humanity is “taking a backward step” in protecting the planet.
Through her Remembering Wildlife project, she has raised over £1.2 million for global conservation efforts, but said progress is being undone by renewed fossil fuel dependence and policy rollbacks.
Her new book, Ten Years of Remembering Wildlife, features images showing animals like polar bears, cheetahs, and pangolins erased from their natural environments, symbolising a grim future if urgent action is not taken.
Raggett said the visual message was meant to provoke reflection on what the world stands to lose.
She warned that the rate of wildlife decline is accelerating, and without meaningful policy changes, natural habitats could become empty scenes.
She also criticised the UK government’s accelerated housebuilding plans, which she called “short-sighted,” saying they ignore the ecological balance and destroy habitats critical to biodiversity.
Raggett urged authorities to focus on redeveloping existing brownfield sites rather than sacrificing more countryside, stressing that humans are interconnected with nature and depend on healthy ecosystems for climate stability.
Her passion for conservation began after witnessing a poached elephant’s suffering in Kenya, an experience that inspired her to act against wildlife crimes.
She acknowledged some progress, such as China’s ban on ivory, but noted that poaching remains rampant, especially in Africa, due to illegal trade networks and demand in parts of Asia.
Raggett highlighted that tackling consumer demand and strengthening anti-poaching enforcement are vital steps in curbing the crisis.
Reflecting on the recent death of renowned primatologist Jane Goodall, Raggett praised her for her lifelong dedication, humility, and wisdom, describing her as an “inspirational force” in wildlife protection.
Raggett said while she remains anxious about the future, she is encouraged by global citizens still fighting for nature, emphasising that complacency could cost the planet its most precious creatures.
