Biodiversity and wildlife

Biodiversity is a term used to describe the variety of life on earth. This variety is usually understood in terms of the diversity of plant and animal species, but it also refers to differences at all other levels of the natural world, including genetics, habitats and ecosystems.

Human activity is causing the loss of global biodiversity at an ever-increasing rate. Species need to be protected from extinction as they are valuable in their own right. We also depend on huge number of plants and animals for our survival as they provide us with resources such as food, shelter and medicine. Additionally, a healthy environment helps protect us from the effects of climate change. At a local scale, parks and open spaces that are rich in wildlife are more enjoyable places to visit.

One of the ways in which the UK has responded to the need to conserve biodiversity is through the creation and implementation of a Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP).