On 6th August, Wem Rural Parish Council made a significant commitment to environmental sustainability by adopting a comprehensive Biodiversity Policy at its council meeting. This policy is a landmark development in the Council’s dedication to enhancing local ecosystems and fostering sustainable practices throughout the Parish.
In accordance with the duty imposed on town and parish councils by Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, updated by Section 102 of the Environment Act 2021, the new Biodiversity Policy underscores the Council’s responsibility to consider and promote biodiversity in its decision-making processes.
The Biodiversity Policy includes a detailed action plan with specific action points that the Council will focus on over the next two years. This action plan is designed to guide the Council’s efforts in preserving and boosting local biodiversity, outlining a series of practical steps aimed at achieving measurable environmental improvements.
Key elements of the action plan include:
- Habitat Restoration: Initiatives to restore and enhance local natural habitats, including planting native species and improving soil and water quality.
- Wildlife Protection: Measures to safeguard local wildlife and their habitats, such as creating safe spaces for wildlife and monitoring species diversity.
- Pollution Reduction: Strategies to minimise pollution and its impact on local ecosystems, including reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices.
- Community Engagement: Efforts to involve local residents in biodiversity projects, including educational programmes and volunteer opportunities.
Councillor Huw Edwards, Chair of Wem Rural Parish Council, highlighted the significance of the policy: “By adopting this Biodiversity Policy, we are reinforcing our commitment to environmental stewardship and setting a clear path for action over the next two years. The inclusion of an actionable plan ensures that our goals are not just aspirations but concrete steps towards a more sustainable future.”
The Council’s commitment extends beyond internal efforts; it includes collaboration with local organisations dedicated to environmental conservation. Wem Rural Parish Council will partner with groups such as Save Our Shropshire, Wem Area Climate Action, and other local conservation bodies. These partnerships will be crucial in raising awareness, sharing resources, and implementing effective biodiversity strategies.
Adopting a Biodiversity Policy is vital for parish councils as they manage local land and resources and have a direct impact on their communities’ environmental health. By integrating biodiversity considerations into their policies, councils can drive substantial positive changes and contribute to the broader goal of ecological sustainability.
You can view the full policy here. The Council is enthusiastic about the upcoming projects and the positive impact they will have on the local environment and community.
