Best Value and Biodiversity in Scotland: A HANDBOOK OF GOOD PRACTICE FOR PUBLIC BODIES
APPENDIX 4
Literature Summaries
This section gives a summary of the literature indicated with an* in the References ( appendix 3).
Action for Scotland's Biodiversity (2000)
A4 book
The UN Convention on Biological Diversity emphasises that there are three aspects to biodiversity:
conservation of biological diversity;
sustainable use of its components; and
fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of utilisation of genetic resources.
This publication focuses primarily on the first of these elements, but emphasises the value to the Scottish people of the habitats and species described in the text. Action to ensure the second and third elements requires a much wider commitment from all levels of government and civic society in Scotland, but it is also a responsibility of the Scottish Biodiversity Group to consider how to take this work forward. It takes a strategic overview of those species and habitats identified for priority treatment by the UK Government. It outlines a number of the key achievements and it identifies some of the challenges and choices for the future. Biodiversity is a global issue, but the context in which it is worked out is at the European, British, Scottish and local levels, and we must all take responsibility to maintain and replenish the range of biodiversity wherever we live.
A Flying Start - Local Biodiversity Action in Scotland (2001)
A4 booklet
A report from case studies directly developed from the experience of LBAP partnerships, in Scotland. The report demonstrates how local authorities in Scotland have developed ways of supporting biodiversity conservation in their local area. It is an illustration of what has been achieved in Scotland, to share best practice between various initiatives, and to give credit for what has already been achieved. It is not a guide to the process of developing an LBAP, for this see LBAP Manual and Guidance Notes (CoSLA/Scottish Office, 1999).
Best Value for Biodiversity - Helping to achieve continuous improvement for biodiversity conservation within Local Government (2001)
A4 booklet
This guidance will:
help local authorities scope the full extent of local authority services for review under Best Value and understand their importance;
identify potential areas for improvement;
select local performance indicators; and
integrate biodiversity into other areas of work.
Biodiversity and the Farming Year: Photocards and the 5-14 curriculum (2001)
A4 pack
The pack is a learning and teaching tool designed to support teachers in the delivery of the Environmental Studies curriculum. These notes support the use of the species photocards and the Farming and Conservation cards in pupil activities. The pack is informative, appealing, and interactive, and is very relevant to East Lothian. Pupil activities are available on the Royal Highland Education Trust 77 website.
Biodiversity Checklist for Land Use Planners in Cambridgeshire & Peterborough (2001)
A4 booklet
The Regional Planning Guidance for SE England and the CRoW Act in England and Wales have identified the responsibility local planning authorities have to help achieve UK and Local BAPs. This document has been produced for, and with, planners to help them deal more effectively with biodiversity issues. The checklist aids strategic and development control planners when considering biodiversity, both in policy development and when dealing with planning proposals.
Biodiversity in Scotland: Progress Report (2002)
A4 book
This report summarises Scotland's progress in terms of meeting international obligations on biodiversity (biodiversity conservation is a devolved matter). It reviews and analyses the development and practice of biodiversity policies in Scotland from the inception of the Scottish Biodiversity Group (SBG) in 1996 to 2001. The report:
reviews the work and progress of the SBG from 1996 to 2001;
reviews the progress of UK Biodiversity SAPs and HAPs relevant to Scotland; and
reviews the development and implementation of the LBAP process.
The report provides an assessment of progress in the "conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilisation of genetic resources" over the last 5 years.
This report asks:
Is Scotland protecting its biodiversity?
What policies and plans has it put in place to protect biodiversity?
Are the policies being managed and carried out effectively?
Are the policies having a positive effect on biodiversity?
Can things be improved, and if so, how?
This report does not attempt to summarise the many published biodiversity reports, but does highlight some of the most important findings, and reports from key people involved in the Biodiversity Process. It also indicates how Scotland can conserve its irreplaceable biodiversity resources and answer the international call for nature conservation and sustainable development.
Biodiversity Making the Links (1999)
A4 booklet
A matrix report that identifies associations between species and habitats and provides examples of how species and habitat programmes can operate together. The report suggests methods of liaison between species and habitat groups and provides examples of how the matrix can be used.
Biodiversity: The UK Steering Group Report (Volumes 1 and 2) (1995)
A4 book
The report details targets for conserving the UK's biodiversity and monitoring the actions outlined in the UK Action Plan. It includes recommendations for ways of increasing public awareness and involvement in conserving biodiversity, suggestions for ways of improving accessibility and co-ordination of information on biodiversity.
Business and Biodiversity: A guide for UK-based companies operating internationally (2002)
A5 booklet
Provides an overview of considerations and challenges for UK-based companies with operations or links overseas; explains the international framework of conventions, laws and regulations relating to biodiversity; illustrates good practice; provides examples of specific problems companies have already faced and addressed in, e.g. designing and implementing a company BAP.
Business and Biodiversity: A UK business guide for understanding and integrating nature conservation and biodiversity into environmental management systems (2002)
A5 booklet
Talks of what biodiversity is, what the threats are, and why conserving biodiversity matters to business. Gives five steps on integrating biodiversity into an Environmental Management System.
Business and biodiversity: Site Biodiversity Action Plans: A guide to managing biodiversity on your site (2003)
A5 leaflet folding out to A3
"Instruction" on how to develop a Site BAP (conduct ecological site survey, preparation and, implementation of the plan, monitoring, reviewing and reporting). A series of case studies, with one Scottish example.
Case studies in Business and Biodiversity (2000)
A5 booklet
Explains a BAP, gives 10 indicators of biodiversity management, and 10 examples of best practice for biodiversity management. A series of case studies, but no Scottish examples.
Delivery mechanisms for Local Biodiversity Action Plans in Scotland (1997)
A4 booklet
Guidance for LBAP partnerships in Scotland on the available mechanisms for delivery of LBAPs. It focuses primarily on sources of funding, and on the ways that these should be approached from the local level.
Developing Naturally: A handbook for incorporating the natural environment into planning and development (2000)
A4 book
Provides those involved in the development process with comprehensive information on everything from assessing the value of a site for wildlife to landscaping and the creation of habitats.
Garden for Life - Garden for Birds (and you'll never be short of visitors) (2001)
Garden for Life - Garden for Butterflies (and you'll never be short of visitors) (2003)
Garden for Life - Garden for Life (and you'll never be short of visitors) (2003)
Garden for Life - Garden for Life in pots and containers (2003)
Garden for Life - Garden with Friends (get a helping hand from nature's allies) (2002)
A5 leaflets folding out to A3
Gives guidance to gardeners on how to garden for wildlife. A series of leaflets covering the garden as a whole, how to attract butterflies, how to attract birds, and how to encourage biodiversity in your pots and containers.
Influence of Local Biodiversity Action Plans in the Unitary Authority LA21 Process and Community Planning (2001)
A4 book
The study sought to identify the extent to which LBAPs have been integrated into the Community Planning process, LA21 and statutory Development Plans. Eight areas were considered in this study. For each area, a review of the recent Development Plans was undertaken in order to identify where LBAP objectives and targets had been incorporated, and to provide an overview of the integration between LBAPs, LA21 and Community Planning. A detailed review of two Structure Plans, and two Local Plans was undertaken and examples of joint working between LA21 and LBAPs was identified, as was any constraints to this joint working. The study also sought to identify the opportunities that exist within Community Planning for integrating biodiversity, and an overview of the existence of broader opportunities for incorporating LBAP objectives into other areas of local authority responsibility was undertaken.
Local Biodiversity Action Plans - A manual and guidance notes (1999)
A4 ring-binder
Source of reference and practical guidance for local authorities and others in Scotland involved in preparing LBAPs. This guidance is based on practical experience based on four pilot schemes. Sections include how to establish LBAP partnerships, carrying out audits, establishing priorities and targets, development of HAPs and SAPs, resourcing, implementing, and promoting the plans. The manual is updated as necessary, e.g. details on monitoring and reporting.
Local Biodiversity Action Plans - Technical Information on Species: I Cryptogamic Plants and Fungi (1999)
Local Biodiversity Action Plans - Technical Information on Species: II Vascular Plants (1999)
Local Biodiversity Action Plans - Technical Information on Species: III Invertebrate Animals (1999)
Local Biodiversity Action Plans - Technical Information on Species: IV Vertebrate Animals (2000)
A4 booklets
This is a series (of four) reviews that provide technical information on the priority species, and species of conservation concern (Biodiversity Action Plan), that occur in Scotland. The reviews present data held by SNH. Updates are provided by the Species Group, Scottish Natural Heritage Advisory Services.
Making a Difference - A Guide to Incorporating Biodiversity into Local Authority Services (2000)
A4 booklet
This is a working guide for the local authority officer or operations supervisor to help them incorporate the Durham LBAP into their jobs. A wide range of service areas are highlighted, and for each a number of suggestions are given to enable changes to current working practice to effect benefit for biodiversity. As key partners in the biodiversity process, local authorities can be major deliverers of action for biodiversity, and can become examples of best practice to other partners working for biodiversity conservation.
National Planning Policy Guidance 14 - Natural Heritage (1999)
A4 booklet
Guidance on how the Government's policies for the conservation and enhancement of Scotland's natural heritage should be reflected in land use planning. Natural heritage encompasses both physical attributes and aesthetic values and, given the long interaction between human communities and the land in Scotland, has important cultural and economic dimensions. The NPPG:
sets out national planning policy considerations in relation to Scotland's natural heritage;
summarises main statutory obligations in relation to conservation of natural heritage;
explains, as part of a wider framework for conservation and development, how natural heritage objectives should be reflected in development plans;
describes the role of the planning system in safeguarding sites of national and international importance;
provides guidance on the approach to be adopted in relation to local and non-statutory designations; and
draws attention to the importance of safeguarding and enhancing natural heritage beyond the confines of designated areas.
Principles and policies apply to urban as well as rural areas.
Planning Advice Note 60 - Planning for the Natural Heritage (2000)
A4 booklet
This offers advice on good planning practice in relation to the conservation and enhancement of Scotland's natural heritage. Planning can secure development that complements the natural environment and works with natural processes. A robust and effective planning policy framework for natural heritage depends upon:
well focused and up-to-date development plans;
partnership and community participation;
a good understanding of the natural heritage resource;
clear objectives and targets in relation to landscape, biodiversity and earth heritage; and
a commitment to monitoring and review.
LBAPs and LRCs have valuable roles to play in informing this process. Networks of quality greenspace are an effective means of providing:
a strategic landscape framework for urban development;
valuable wildlife habitats and increased biodiversity;
accessible opportunities for recreation and enjoyment of the natural world; and
opportunities for communities to participate in the management of the local environment.
The restoration of derelict land and mineral sites can offer valuable opportunities to improve landscapes and enhance biodiversity.
Planning Advice Note 64 - Reclamation of Surface Mineral Workings (2002)
A4 booklet
It gives advice on how mineral operators and planning authorities can ensure that mineral workings are reclaimed to a high standard as soon as possible after working has ceased. Reclamation of surface mineral workings can enhance derelict and degraded areas, remove ground instability caused by old mineral workings, create habitats, improve countryside access, provide community facilities, and geological sites of interest. Reclamation can bring environmental and community benefits, although the restored landscape can take several years to mature; can create or enhance a wide range of habitat types and landscape features, and can thereby contribute to targets in UK and Local BAPs. This PAN provides advice on:
relevant legislation and policy;
assessing reclamation proposals;
potential afteruses;
reclamation processes;
consultation procedures;
planning conditions;
restoration and aftercare schemes;
planning agreements;
financial guarantees;
monitoring and enforcement; and
development plans.
It aims to help planning authorities and operators improve the reclamation of surface mineral workings by building on existing experience and where appropriate disseminating and improving best practice.
Planning Advice Note 65 - Planning and Open Space (2003)
A4 booklet
This PAN gives advice on the role of the planning system in protecting and enhancing existing open spaces and providing high quality new spaces. Open space is important to our quality of life and provides a range of social, environmental and economic benefits. The PAN sets out how local authorities can prepare open space strategies and gives examples of good practice in providing, managing and maintaining open spaces. The planning system has a key role in protecting areas that are valuable and valued, and ensuring open space provision of appropriate quality in or within easy reach of new development. Where possible, spaces should link together in a network, providing the landscape and townscape structure in the urban area (networks can encourage walking and cycling, green networks and corridors can promote biodiversity). Open space strategies are a means of co-ordinating the aims of different council departments with responsibilities for open space, and liaising with users, community groups and the private sector. Strategies should be based on an audit and assessment of open space provision and need, and should feed into the development plan, providing the basis for informed policy, land disposal and spending decisions.
Planning for Biodiversity: Good Practice Guide (1999)
A4 booklet
This document recognises the need for a continuous and integrated approach from all involved in the development, use and management of land. It states that biodiversity conservation is "an integral part of planning for sustainable development", and that biodiversity is both dependent on, and an indicator of, a healthy and balanced sustainable development. The document helps raise awareness of biodiversity conservation in the planning system. It improves understanding, resolves conflicts, helps create and recognise opportunities, and provides practical guidance on planning instruments that may contribute to biodiversity conservation. The document states what biodiversity is, gives policy and legislative context, and outlines the LBAP process. It gives advice on good practice in Development Plans, Development Control, and in other planning initiatives that may contribute to biodiversity conservation.
Ponds Pools and Lochans - guidance on good practice in the management and creation of small water bodies in Scotland (2002)
A4 booklet
This is best practice guidance on small man-made and natural water bodies in Scotland (up to 2ha). The guide is split into five sections:
general background information on ponds and pools (status, threats, etc.);
ecological, historical, archaeological, and amenity value of small water bodies;
pond management;
design of new ponds; and
design of ponds in Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS).
The guide is intended for environmental statutory agencies, NGOs and consultants, farmers and landowners, local authority planners, engineers and developers, landscape architects, LBAP partnerships and interested public.
Putting a bit back: A guide to nature conservation for small to medium-sized enterprises (2001)
A5 leaflet folding out to A3
Gives best practice recommendations for SMEs (environmental review, site review, improving site nature conservation interest, memberships and sponsorships, staff involvement, review of actions).
Series of case studies, with no Scottish examples.
Scottish Biodiversity Forum not cited as a contact, but the UKBAP web site is mentioned via the Biodiversity Policy Unit DETR.
Roadside Biodiversity Action Plan (2000)
A4 booklet
In Dumfries and Galloway there are approximately 4,000km of urban and rural roadside verge, which offers huge wildlife conservation potential. This Roadside BAP is a strategy that aims to maximise the biodiversity of the roadside verge without compromising road safety.
Scottish Planning Policy 1 - The Planning System (2002)
A4 booklet
Scottish Planning Policies (SPPs) identify the key priorities for the planning system. This SPP provides an overview of the land use planning system in Scotland under current arrangements. It sets out the key principles and the Executive's priorities for the system to guide policy formulation and decision making towards the goal of sustainable development. It:
outlines the purpose of the planning system;
indicates how planning can contribute to the Executive's wider objectives;
sets out the main tasks for development planning and development control;
identifies the Executive's expectations for an efficient and effective planning service;
specifies the performance targets that the Executive and planning authorities should aim to meet in carrying out their statutory responsibilities.
The policy in this SPP is aimed at planning authorities, the public and others with an interest in the operation of the planning system and should be considered alongside other SPPs and NPPGs when formulating policy and making decisions.
Sustaining the Variety of Life: 5 Years of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (2001)
A4 book
The UK Biodiversity Group's report on the first 5 years of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The report takes stock of the biodiversity partnership and the successes, challenges and future objectives for the UK BAP and progress on the 436 Action Plans to conserve the most threatened and vulnerable species and habitats in the UK.
Tapestry of Life Biodiversity: A resource for secondary teachers of English and communication (2001)
A4 book
This focuses on biodiversity and is intended to be a catalyst to pupils' interest in the area of environmental issues within the English [language] curriculum. The work is a teacher resource for biodiversity. The thinking behind Tapestry of Life was that environmental concerns should not be solely the province of school science departments, it should be possible to think about our world in other areas of the curriculum. English is a logical location for biodiversity as there is scope for discussion, reading and writing, and as English is not content driven, any topic is valid for study. Each unit contains work suitable for five periods of 40 minutes. The work would suit mixed ability or streamed S3/S4 classes. Creative permutations of how to use this work are numerous, allowing teachers different scope for their use in the classroom.
Trunk Roads Biodiversity Action Plan (consultation) (draft)
A4 book
This is a BAP for the Scottish trunk road network. It sets out the Scottish Executive's commitment to conserve and enhance biodiversity on Scotland's trunk road network. It provides information and guidance for those directly involved in managing trunk roads, and for those who work to encourage biodiversity in the region. The Plan seeks to integrate local and national biodiversity initiatives, to ensure consistent and positive effort towards improving the natural environment in Scotland. The overall goal of the Trunk Road BAP is to contribute to biodiversity objectives by protecting Scotland's natural heritage on and adjacent to the trunk road network using cost-effective techniques. To achieve this, a seven point plan has been set down. Detailed Area Action Plans will be developed in consultation with LBAP partnerships, setting out objectives, targets and actions for locally important habitats and species.
UK Biodiversity Action Plan (1994)
A4 book
The UK BAP was published (January 1994) in response to the Biodiversity Convention, to develop national strategies for the conservation of biological diversity and the sustainable use of biological resources. The UK BAP included contributions from Government, statutory conservation agencies, the academic world and the voluntary sector. It committed the then Government and its agencies to 59 programmes or tasks: to conserve species and habitats; to develop public awareness and understanding; and to contribute to biodiversity work in the European and global context. Following publication, a Biodiversity Steering Group was established to advise the Government on implementation, where work included:
proposals for monitoring a long list of 1252 species to provide a health check on biodiversity within the UK;
production of action plans for 116 species and 14 habitats;
recommendations to produce further action plans;
improving quality and accessibility of data and biological recording, including developing a national database and local record centres;
production of initial guidance on local biodiversity action plans, with recommendation that more detailed guidelines should be produced; and
over 80 proposals to increase public awareness and foster education and training in biodiversity.
Watercourses in the community - a guide to sustainable watercourse management in the urban environment (2000)
A4 booklet
This handbook was published as part of the Habitat Enhancement Initiative. It aims to highlight the importance of urban watercourses, and to enable their restoration, protection and appreciation. It shows how watercourses can be managed to increase biodiversity and enhance urban areas, and outlines techniques, philosophy and legislation regarding the management and engineering of such watercourses.
