Unfortunately, our biodiversity is sometimes neglected leaving rare species and their habitats under threat.

This is where conservation helps prevent our rare species and habitats from becoming extinct as well as making sure our favorite species, such as frogs, butterflies, and birds, and habitats such as meadows and woodlands stay widespread and do not disappear from the areas we live in.

Under the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act (2004) all public bodies in Scotland are required to further the conservation of biodiversity. The Wildlife and Natural Environment (WANE) Act (2011), requires public bodies in Scotland to provide an available report every three years, on the actions which they have taken to meet this biodiversity duty.    

Our Biodiversity Action Plan has been developed to conserve and enhance the habitats and species that contribute to the unique character and heritage of North Lanarkshire.

It looks to the aspirations as set out in the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy while providing the local context for delivery on the ground.

To maintain and enhance:        

• The populations and natural ranges of native species and the quality and range of wildlife habitats and ecosystems.
• Internationally and nationally important and threatened species, habitats, and ecosystems.
• Species, habitats, and managed ecosystems that are characteristic of North Lanarkshire or are of local importance.
• The biodiversity of natural and semi-natural habitats where this has diminished over recent decades.

To increase community awareness of and involvement in conserving biodiversity.

To work with the development industry to identify opportunities for biodiversity enhancement within development proposals. 

To identify priorities for habitat and species conservation in North Lanarkshire and set realistic targets and timescales for these.