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The International Year of Biodiversity UK Partnership


2010 is the United Nations’ International Year of Biodiversity (IYB) and British Waterways (BW) is one of more than 200 organisations to sign up to an IYB-UK partnership, along with Defra, the National Trust, RSPB and the Environment Agency.

BW’s national ecology manager, Mark Robinson was at London’s Natural History Museum when the partnership was launched by waterways minister, Huw Irranca-Davies MP.

The minister stressed the importance of the initiative and expressed his concerns over current losses of biodiversity. Today’s rate of species extinction may be 1,000 times higher than the natural rate, with climate change emerging as one of the most significant drivers.

Mark says: “British Waterways looks after some important wildlife, as shown by our annual survey. The electric blue flash of the kingfisher or the industrious swim of the water vole as it crosses the canal is always a thrill to see. Our canals and rivers are also home to important populations of still water aquatic plants, including the European protected floating water plantain (Luronium natans).”

Despite threats to UK biodiversity, it’s not all bad news. Otters are making a comeback across Britain and can now be found on many waterways, including the Llangollen, Forth & Clyde and Oxford canals, and the Aire & Calder Navigation. There are also good populations of water voles in areas such as the Kennet & Avon Canal.

Mark continues: “Conservation has always been part of our core business. The International Year of Biodiversity is a great opportunity for us to celebrate waterways’ habitats and species, many of which are rare and protected. We can also share the good work British Waterways is doing with customers and stakeholders. The wildlife survey, and our project with The Woodland Trust to record all our ancient trees, are vital in getting people involved in preserving the incredible environment that we care for.”

Hundreds of events are being planned during 2010 across the UK by IYB partners. For more information on how you can support biodiversity in your area, visit www.biodiversityislife.net.

Last updated: 20/01/2010