Caring for biodiversity is a key element of sustainable development; it is a role that developers are well placed to undertake.

Background

Biodiversity represents the variety of biological life and of the activity of plants and animals, plus the various habitats which support them. It is not just about the rare and special, it is about valuing the entire natural world around us.

The value of biodiversity extends beyond the pleasure and knowledge to be gained from contact with nature; for example, we are only just recognising the social and economic potential of some plants and animals as new sources of food or medicines. Caring for biodiversity is a key element of sustainable development and larger schemes are expected not only to compensate for any negative impacts but also to secure some significant biodiversity ‘gains’.

The health of our wildlife is a key indicator of the condition of the environment as a whole. The last century saw a dramatic increase in the speed and scale of biodiversity loss, and ongoing research indicates that a number of species have become extinct or endangered. This century brings the added challenge of adapting to climate change, which will have further implications for wildlife.

Nottinghamshire has a wide variety of natural habitats, from the wetlands of the Trent Valley to the ancient woodlands and heathlands of Sherwood Forest. These need careful management and monitoring if they are to survive for future generations to enjoy.

The value of biodiversity extends beyond the pleasure and knowledge to be gained from contact with nature; it shapes the quality of our oxygen, food and water, and can contribure to our physical and mental health.

Forces for change

• The UK Biodiversity Action Plan and Nottinghamshire’s Local Biodiversity Action Plan set out national and local targets/actions for protecting our habitats and species.
• Habitat losses in Nottinghamshire include 50% less ancient woodland than in 1920, 90% less heathland than in 1922, 98% less wildflower grassland than in 1930.
• Public awareness and involvement in nature conservation issues has grown dramatically over the past ten years.
• Recording of biodiversity data is improving steadily. This provides a fuller understanding of the county’s natural resources and enables a rapid response to change.
• Reduced permitted levels of water abstraction from aquifers and the Nitrate Vulnerable Zone status (for much of the county) will prompt changes to agricultural practice.
• Increasing weight and scope of leglislation protecting wildlife.