Biodiversity Action Plan

What is a Biodiversity Action Plan?

A biodiversity action plan sometimes referred to as a BAP is a plan which is developed by an organisation or body to provide a framework for protecting and improving the biodiversity of an environment which is governed or managed by the organisation. The creation of a biodiversity action plan takes note that the organisation will have some level of impact on biodiversity, whether this be positive or negative and looks at ways that the organisation can provide a more positive impact. Biodiversity action plans can be completed at a national, regionally or local level.

Typically a biodiversity action plan will aim to provide a strategic overview for biodiversity conservation in any given area, and highlight priority habitats and species within the area in question given due consideration to the relevant local, regional and/or national biodiversity action plan. It will look to clarify a common approach to biodiversity conservation and education in order to achieve this aim.

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What is included in a Biodiversity Action Plan?

A biodiversity action plan will firstly set out the key aims and intentions of the plan. It may also set out who the key partners are who will assist or contribute to achieving the aims and objectives of the biodiversity action plan. The biodiversity action plan will then set out the current situation/scene regarding biodiversity within the given location. This may refer to national, regional or local biodiversity action plans which have some relevant. It may also look at local initiatives and policy which are relevant.

The biodiversity action plan will then go on to summarise how the key objectives will be implemented. This may refer to the organisational structure, the number and regularity of meetings, and other initiatives such as PR etc. The biodiversity action plan will also confirm the key indicators and data that will be assessed and reported to monitor the progress and effectiveness of the biodiversity action plan, this may be the number of a certain type of species, the quality of water or air, and the engagement of the local community.

The biodiversity action plan will likely link in with other local initiatives and planning policy to see how the aim and objectives crossover with these issues in order to align various strategies.

The biodiversity action plan will also identify key habitats and locations that are to be protected and enhanced. These are likely to be a variety of habitats that have some degree of ecological importance owing to wildlife or vegetation species. These may be woodland, pasture, estuary’s etc.

Why do I need a Biodiversity Action Plan?

Within the UK, government departments, universities and other public bodies are legally required to ensure they are conserving biodiversity. This does not necessarily mean that they are required to have a biodiversity action plan, although having one will ensure that their strategy is fully considered and they have a clear understanding of how the objectives of the biodiversity action plan will enable them to conserve and improve biodiversity.

The obligations on businesses are lesser than public organisations, although they should also consider the benefits of putting a biodiversity action plan in plan. This is likely to be more advantageous and relevant for businesses whose operations practices are more closer tied to the environment.