Local nature conservation charity, the Manx Wildlife Trust is urging members of the public to respond to the consultation on the Island’s first Biodiversity Strategy.
In August last year, the UK’s signature to the Convention on Biological Diversity was extended to the Isle of Man so that we are now part of a growing group of nations working to safeguard our planet’s natural heritage. The Isle of Man’s Biodiversity Strategy has been drafted by the Department of the Environment, Food and Agriculture’s Principal Biodiversity Officer, Liz Charter, together with a sub-committee of the Manx Nature Conservation Forum, and should be of interest to everyone who values our Island’s special environment and wildlife.
Put simply, biodiversity is the variety of life and living processes on land and in the sea and is essential for a healthy and sustainable future for our Island. The Strategy sets out seven key objectives which, by 2020, will help government to: manage biodiversity change to minimise loss; maintain and where necessary restore or enhance native biodiversity; actively involve society in understanding, appreciating and safeguarding biodiversity. The consultation, which runs until 30 September 2013, is a great opportunity for everyone who cares about Manx wildlife and its conservation to help shape its future protection and sustainability.
The Manx Wildlife Trust’s Director, Duncan Bridges, said, “If you enjoy walking in the hills, spotting dolphins, whales and basking sharks around our coast or even just feeding the birds in your garden, please do take the time to read through the Biodiversity Strategy and send your comments through to Liz Charter. Biodiversity is a critical part of our heritage and we all need to work together to protect it.”
You can read and comment on the Biodiversity Strategy at www.gov.im/consultations and hard copies may also be found in local libraries and Commissioners Offices.
Photo - Cotton grass at Dalby Mountain.jpg.
