WWF has learned over the years that good conservation and environment work, in the UK or internationally, often requires changes in the law. So, in 1997 WWF-UK set up its first, specialist Public Affairs team.

Our job is to ensure that WWF's messages and campaigns make the maximum impact on decision-makers through all levels of government. We aim to focus political attention on the environment and to help politicians prioritise finding solutions to environmental problems.

We do this through lobbying in Europe on international issues, talking to MPs and local authorities, giving evidence to Parliamentary Committees and lobbying on bills.

The current team has decades of experience at local government, Westminster and international levels. A lot of our time is spent in Westminster, the heart of political life, which means we are able to get access to the people in power and keep up to date with what is happening on the political agenda. This also makes it an ideal venue for holding events, as MPs can drop in during their working day. Recent WWF events in Westminster have included our One Planet Living Campaign launch and a screening of a Marine Bill film.

The Public Affairs team also has a strong presence at each of the main Party Conferences every year which, as the major meeting place for members of the political parties, provides a great networking opportunity to influence leading politicians.