In line with their commitment to protect and enhance biodiversity locally, Derry City Council launched their first ever Local Biodiversity Action Plan today.
The strategy is part of bigger Northern Irish and UK wide efforts to protect biodiversity and fulfil the UK's international commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity.
The Local Biodiversity Action Plan was created in Partnership with government and non-government organisations, and has created a forum for discussion, project development and delivery for numerous environmental groups, including ones that were not previously working in the North West, such as the Ulster Wildlife Trust. The initiative has drawn up a list of both urban and rural opportunities for action and the partnership is committed to the implementation of each action and to achieving the targets specified within the plan.
The Action Plan also outlines opportunities for local residents and groups to engage with environmental projects within their own communities, which will really make a difference for biodiversity in Derry. One outcome of the plan is a Department of Social Development funded Areas at Risk Programme that delivers "Wildlife and Wellbeing" programmes to schools and the community of the Ballynashallog ward.
The plan has been applauded for the inclusion of national organisations such as the Department for Agriculture and Rural Development, the Northern Ireland Environmental Agency and the Loughs Agency. Each agency will assist in the implementation of actions locally that will safeguard the biodiversity that this district has been proud of for centuries.
Speaking about the launch of the plan Mayor Councillor Gerard Diver said he was delighted that Derry City Council was taking such a proactive and holistic approach towards biodiversity. He continued,
"Derry City Council and its partners are committed to providing a clean, diverse accessible and sustainable environment for people to enjoy. This document brings people and organisations together to take collective action to protect and enhance wildlife and their habitats across the Derry City Council area. In order to provide for future generations it is crucial that we take responsibility for biodiversity and develop a Green conscience. The document is an enjoyable read and I would encourage everyone to read a copy of it and get involved in the events and activities that will be created over the next five years "
The document begins by explaining what biodiversity is and the importance of preserving the natural habitat for our plant and wildlife. It also puts general environmental issues into a local context and looks at some of the historical connections between the people of Derry and nature and highlights some important habitats and species found in the district such as farmland, woodlands, Atlantic salmon, wading birds, and bumblebees.
John Kelpie, City Engineer for Derry City Council explains
"This plan is all about protecting the biodiversity we have, enriching it, and reconnecting people with the natural environment and taking pride in their natural surroundings, getting out and enjoying it. The strategy is all-inclusive, working with designated organisations and also encouraging the local community to play its part. It focuses on threats facing our environment like climate change, invasive species and habitat fragmentation and highlights the necessary actions and programmes to counteract them."
The Action Plan is based on three main aims, the first of which is to raise awareness and knowledge of biodiversity issues in general. The plan also aims to take actions that will conserve priority habitats and species and finally to work in partnership with other bodies to address threats to biodiversity.
There is a list of interesting biodiversity sites to visit within the district at the end of the document and suggestions of simple actions individuals and families can do for biodiversity.
