How to integrate biodiversity into authority’s services activities
To be actively implementing the NERC biodiversity duty, your local/public authority needs to be able to demonstrate that:
- Biodiversity conservation and enhancement is appropriately integrated throughout all service policies and activities.
- All staff, managers and elected members understand how biodiversity issues relate to their decisions and actions.
- There is sustained commitment and support to implement their local biodiversity action plan (Tees Valley Biodiversity Action Plan).
- Progress is achieved against biodiversity indicators and targets.
Management of authority controlled land and buildings
One of the most direct ways in which local and public authorities can positively influence biodiversity is by sensitively managing their land and buildings. This does not only include designated wildlife sites but the whole spectrum of green infrastructure, such as public open spaces, tenanted farmland, cemeteries, school grounds, sports pitches and roadside verges.
The management of buildings and grounds can affect biodiversity indirectly by impacting on the environment through use of energy, water, peat and chemicals. This impact can be reduced with sustainability audits and schemes such as the Environmental Management Scheme (EMS).
Local policies and strategies
Proactive consideration of biodiversity should not be viewed solely as an environmental issue, but as a core component of sustainable development, which underpins economic development and prosperity.
Embedding biodiversity within corporate plans and policies will ensure that biodiversity is given sufficient priority. There are opportunities to deliver biodiversity conservation through Local Strategic Partnerships, Sustainable Community Strategies and Local Area Agreements.
Planning, infrastructure and development
Forward planning and development control provide opportunities to maintain and enhance biodiversity, improve quality of life and adapt to climate change. National planning legislation and policies provide guidance to ensure that biodiversity protection and enhancement is taken into account in local and regional plans and decisions. These processes must be underpinned by high quality biodiversity information such as wildlife surveys, audits and monitoring initiatives.
Education, advice and awareness
Local authorities have an important role to play in inspiring people and increasing awareness of biodiversity conservation. This encompasses encouraging and supporting community engagement in biodiversity, also providing advice to stakeholders, businesses and the wider public. The education system, foundation, primary, secondary and adult services should all play a key role in promoting the understanding of biodiversity conservation.
