Biological diversity or biodiversity is the variety of life in its various forms: plants, animals and micro-organisms, their genes and the ecosystems of which they form a part. Conservation of biodiversity is central to safeguarding the environment and is enshrined in the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), one of the key agreements to emerge out of the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. 168 countries are now signatory to the CBD, which apart from conservation, also aims at sustainable use and equitable sharing of benefits derived from biodiversity. Biodiversity conservation is not only a matter of preserving unique species, but is seen as part of an overall strategy for survival of the planet. Loss of biodiversity means a loss of options, something mankind cannot afford. National biodiversity conservation strategies and actions plans have focused attention on key species and ecosystems and have helped attract funding, notably from sources such as the Global Environmental Facility (GEF), but also via World Conservation Union (IUCN), Natura2000, national governments and others. Loss of biodiversity is perceived by many to be among major risks linked with unsustainable development, deforestation, climate change and sea level rise.

Euroconsult Mott MacDonald‘s experience:

• Developing and implementing plans for habitat restoration
• Developing guidelines and approaches for sustainable utilisation of biological resources
• Development of protected area systems, strategies, guidelines and regulations
• Wildlife management and improved habitat management
• GIS and database management for ecosystem planning and management
• Contribution to international conservation treaties
• Control of invasive alien species
• Biodiversity trust funds
• Design of GEF biodiversity conservation projects