creating environmental improvements through biodiversity

Sustainable Aggregates Creating Environmental Improvements through Biodiversity
Site: England, including various case studies throughout the country
Project Aims:
To explain the context and rationale for action on biodiversity, including BAPs
To explore the potential relevance of the UK BAP to the minerals industry
To present examples of best practice
To propose targets and actions for the minerals industry and English Nature
To provide a list of references and contacts on Biodiversity Action Plans
To consider how efforts of the minerals industry to contribute to nature conservation may be guided or refocused
by the target-led BAP approach to this
Main Methods:
Desk review of context, legislation, opportunities, monitoring methods and case studies, relating to minerals
industry actions for biodiversity
Output:
Report providing:
Important background and guidance for the minerals industry on their potential contribution to BAP targets
Information on specific habitats, species and EN programmes likely to be relevant to mineral workings
Review of a sample of Local BAPs and their effects – more detailed LBAPs leading to identification of more
specific actions and roles for different bodies
Emphasis that the BAP and LBAP process should involve partnerships and communication within and
between organisations and communities
Review of development plans and development control relating to the industry’s contribution to UK BAP, and
guidance on Environmental Assessment procedures (to include monitoring)
Examples of good practice using case studies
Information on practical actions that minerals companies can take at different stages of an operation
(including auditing, land management techniques, monitoring and reviewing) to:
• avoid damaging existing habitats
• enhance or create habitats at a site
Sets of recommended objectives and associated actions for the minerals industry, EN and other partners,
including to:
• provide a formal basis for promotion of biodiversity across the industry
• promote understanding of the concept of biodiversity, and local and national initiatives, throughout and
beyond the industry
• develop a strategic industry approach to championing species (and perhaps habitats) for which Action
Plans have been prepared
• carry out site / company biodiversity audits and act on the findings
• become more involved with LBAPs, LEAPs and LA21 initiatives, and identify priorities for action
Recommendation that more detailed advice is given to the minerals industry on the part they can play in
heavily worked EN Natural Areas
Recommendation that LBAP authors pay more attention to the potential role of the minerals industry
References and contacts relevant to the report (contacts not included in our copy)
Impacts (Actual):
The report provides good background for the minerals industry on the opportunities and obligations it has
in relation to biodiversity. It also lays out actions that should be taken by EN and other partners (e.g. local
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