Environmental services - ecology and geology
Greater Manchester Ecology Unit
Biodiversity encompasses the whole variety of life on Earth. It
includes all species of plants and animals, but also their genetic
variation, and the complex ecosystems of which they are part. It is
not restricted to rare or threatened species but includes the whole
of the natural world from the commonplace to the critically
endangered.
The world is losing biodiversity at an ever-increasing rate as a
result of human activity. In the UK we have lost over 100 species
during the last century, with many more species and habitats in
danger of disappearing, especially at the local level. On a world
scale the rate of loss is now recognised to be a cause for serious
concern, requiring concerted international action to prevent
continued loss of biodiversity. Local authorities recognise their
responsibilities for contributing to the effective conservation of
biodiversity at a local level, to maintain an attractive natural
environment and to ensure that the basic ecological services and
resources necessary to sustain the well-being, not only of current,
but also future generations, are maintained.
The Greater Manchester Ecology Unit (GMEU)
provides specialist advice to, and on behalf of, the ten district
councils that make up Greater Manchester on biodiversity, nature
conservation and wildlife issues. Although hosted by Tameside
Council,
GMEU
works across the whole of Greater Manchester.
The Ecology Unit:
- Prepares and helps to implement the Greater
Manchester Biodiversity Action Plan.
- Comments on the ecological impact of
development proposals on behalf of planning departments, and
provides advice on safeguarding wildlife on development sites.
- Identifies, surveys and designates Sites of
Biological Importance in Greater Manchester.
- Advises other council departments and the
general public on wildlife issues.
- Provides specialist ecological advice for,
and presentation of evidence at, public inquiries.
- Inputs into the preparation of Local
Development Frameworks and other plans and strategies.
- Provides advice on national and international
legislation and planning guidance relating to wildlife and nature
conservation, including protected species.
- Advises on the management of local authority
owned land, including the preparation of site management
plans.
- Provides training for local authority staff
and others.
To find out more information on ecology and
biodiversity, contact the Greater Manchester Ecology Unit:
Greater Manchester Ecology
Unit