creating environmental improvements through biodiversity

6 CONCLUSIONS
A number of common themes were noted throughout the reviewed reports,
while several gaps in knowledge and issues for further research were
identified. Some important issues are highlighted here and recommendations
are made for co-ordination and communication of knowledge, including the
future dissemination of ALSF-funded research.
6.1 MAIN CONCLUSIONS:
The value of stakeholder engagement is a common feature of many of the projects – in many cases ALSF
work has brought all types of stakeholders together for the first time.
Sustainable Aggregates Creating Environmental Improvements through Biodiversity
Early discussion between stakeholders on issues affecting biodiversity benefits all involved, and can lead to
innovative ways of resolving issues (including where minerals site restoration and determination of end-uses
are involved.)
Habitat creation on minerals sites should achieve high quality target habitats covering significant areas
– restoration to ‘nature conservation’ as a smaller part of amenity end-use rarely provides worthwhile gains
for biodiversity.
A fund to enable Mineral Planning Authorities to investigate which areas within their authorities should be
priorities for creating which habitats on mineral sites, depending on their location, would be very useful.
A tool for identifying the habitats appropriate on potential future minerals sites would be extremely
advantageous
Landscape scale approaches to site restoration are highly beneficial for biodiversity.
Co-ordinated monitoring of biodiversity on minerals sites, from pre-extraction to restoration, should be
carried out in order to inform decisions.
Centralised recording of monitoring data would be extremely useful, and allow improved dissemination of
information and sharing of best practice.
A number of useful handbooks and sources of information and guidance are named in the reviewed reports.
These are highlighted within the body of this review.
Perceived blocks to habitat creation as a minerals site end-use can often be overcome by early consideration
in the planning process. Dissemination of innovative solutions and good practice will be also beneficial, and
more research is needed on particular blocks - especially bird strike.
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