Biodiversity Action Plans
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Campaigns |
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Hounslow BAP |
What are Biodiversity Action Plans ?
The boroughs in West London have all had nature conservation policies and activity for many years. However, there has been a lack of any coherent strategy or framework for conservation. This issue was recognised as a general one by both central government and non-governmental organisations. As a result, the concept of 'Biodiversity Action Plans', or BAPs, was developed. There is a BAP for London and it is the intent that there should be one for each borough.
Instead of just vague statements of intent or desired outcomes, BAPs contain plans to protect and enhance specific habitats and species. These are called 'Habitat Action Plans' and 'Species Action Plans'. The status of the habitat or species in question is first examined, together with issues and threats affecting it. A series of actions, specifying the lead party and a timescale, is then listed.
It was recognised fron the outset that if BAPs were going to be produced and be effective, they would need the involvement and commitment of a range of organisations and individuals. It is therefore the norm that some group, such as a 'Biodiversity Partnership' is set up to promote and oversee the BAP. In practice, it has been found that at a borough level, the council normally has to take the lead. Volunteers, while often able to make a significant contribution, generally lack the 'clout' or resources to take the lead in producing BAPs.
How are BAPs progressing in West London?
There are BAPs for most or all of the West London boroughs, although some are more advanced than others. For information local BAPs, contact borough groups or search the web.
London-wide
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London BAP |
A grouping of organisations called the 'London Biodiversity Patnership' (LBP) has produced a comprehensive BAP, together with a set of habitat and species 'audits'. These may be found on the LBP's web site. The habitat and species action plans have been used as model for many of the individual boroughs' plans.