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Biodiversity

Biodiversity encompasses the wide range of species inhabiting Earth. As per the latest findings in the State of Nature Report 2019 by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, 56% of species declined between 1970 and 2013, with 15% already extinct or facing extinction from our vicinity.

Parish and town councils are crucial in promoting biodiversity within their communities. Here are some actions your council can take:

  • Habitat preservation — Identify and protect local habitats such as woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. This involves managing these areas to maintain their ecological balance and prevent development encroachment.
  • Green space management — Ensure that green spaces within the parish are managed to promote biodiversity. This includes maintaining diverse plant species, providing habitat for wildlife, and minimizing the use of pesticides and herbicides.
  • Community engagement — Raise residents' awareness about the importance of biodiversity and encourage them to participate in conservation efforts. This could involve organizing educational events, volunteering opportunities, or community-led projects like tree planting or habitat restoration.
  • Planning and development — Advocate for biodiversity-friendly practices in local planning and development decisions. This may include incorporating green infrastructure, such as green roofs or wildlife corridors, into new developments and protecting existing green spaces from development.
  • Wildlife monitoring — Collaborate with local conservation organisations or volunteer groups to monitor wildlife populations and track changes in biodiversity over time. This data can inform conservation efforts and help identify areas needing protection or restoration.
  • Policy development — Develop and implement policies that support biodiversity conservation, such as biodiversity action plans or green procurement policies. These policies can guide decision-making and ensure that biodiversity considerations are integrated into parish council activities and projects.
  • Increasing tree coverage — Conduct a tree survey to assess the current tree canopy cover and identify areas with potential for tree planting. Develop a tree planting strategy that prioritises native tree species and considers factors such as soil quality, water availability, and potential ecological benefits.

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