The Island's biodiversity should always be considered in future development plans.
That's the message from Environment Minister Phil Gawne as the Isle of Man's first ever published biodiversity strategy goes out for public consultation.
DEFA says the benefits of a forward-thinking strategy may not be immediately apparent, but it's estimated biodiversity is worth at least ?40 million per year to the Isle of Man, whilst the carbon stored as peat in Manx soils was valued at ?95 million in 2010.
Mr Gawne says the strategy "Managing Our Natural Wealth to 2020" should help the Island consider the bigger picture as the economy moves forward: (play audio)
The consultation period runs until September 30, and all interested parties are invited to respond.
You can read the strategy on line at gov.im/consultations/ or obtain copies from commissioners' offices, public libraries, the Manx Wildlife Trust and the Manx Museum.
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