AN environment protection agency is urging people to look after the North-East's green spaces to improve the region's long-term economy and well-being.

A report published by Natural England yesterday entitled The State of the Natural Environment in the North-East, emphasised the importance of a thriving natural environment in addressing economic and health issues, and encouraged everyone to help preserve such areas.

The report, which covers the Pennines to the coast, and Cheviot Hills down to the Tees estuary, reveals the prominent issues affecting the environment are climate change, pressures from developments, and lack of environmental knowledge amongst the region's population.

The findings highlighted the Moor House - Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve as a success story for conserving the environment and providing an effective educational resource.

Castle Eden Dene in East Durham, Lindisfarne in Northumberland, and Teesmouth are also included in the report.

A similar report released for North Yorkshire recently specified the need to develop an Environment in Health agenda, and increase physical activity amongst people living in the region.

The North-East's report was a follow-up to a national document released last year.

Rob Aubrook, Natural England's regional director in the North-East, said yesterday: "We have moved that onto a more regional perspective to highlight the issues we face in the North-East.

"There are case studies highlighting the work we have done, especially partnership working, and a call for action to further improve the situation.

"We have some fantastic upland and peat land in the region. By looking after those to improve air and water quality, and encouraging people to get out into these green spaces more often, we will improve people's health and well-being."

He said such areas were important for encouraging high quality industries to the region, and added: "Our natural environment is not a luxury. Action is needed now from everyone in the region - from key decision makers, to the general public.

"We need people to understand that a healthy natural environment is crucial to our long-term well-being, and that the economy is not going to thrive as well without it."