A MORI poll, commissioned by the New Opportunities Fund, has found the greatest threats to green spaces are from crime, vandalism and people's lack of concern, care or interest. Both were seen as far bigger concerns than traffic pollution and global warming.

The survey also revealed that 50 per cent of the population cite lack of amenities as the main barrier to recycling or being more environmentally friendly. One in five say that the financial cost prevents them from doing more.

Forum Response: New Opportunities Fund

Baroness Pitkeathley, chair of the New Opportunities Fund, told ePolitix.com: "The research highlights key areas of public concern which we are tackling by targeting National Lottery money at grass roots projects. Involving communities in improving their environment is a positive step and can help prevent crime".

Forum Response: Environmental Services Association

Dirk Hazell, chief executive of the ESA, told ePolitix.com: "People need to consume and to work. ESA wants to help people to do so in a way that is environmentally benign. Our Members are working to recycle far more of the material and energy contained in waste back into the productive economy.

"ESA is content to see the link broken between growth in the economy and growth in waste arisings. However, all processes - including recycling - result in the production of materials which cannot legitimately be reused or recycled and which must be managed in an environmentally responsible manner."

Forum Response: Groundwork

Tony Hawkhead, chief executive of Groundwork, told ePolitix.com: "This research shows how important it is that we make the environment relevant to all sections of society, particularly because the poorest people live in the poorest quality environments.

"We need to demonstrate that a better quality environment can actually create jobs, help reduce crime, improve public health and contribute to education. The key is to support projects that give people in poor neighbourhoods the confidence, the skills and the resources to change their own surroundings for the better."