A public consultation was launched today (Monday, 1 September) seeking views on East Lothian’s new Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP).
The plan sets out objectives to tackle the nature emergency by improving the condition of habitats and protecting species while contributing to the restoration and enhancement of the landscape.
Produced by the council on behalf of East Lothian’s Biodiversity Partnership through work between a variety of partners, the LBAP aims to combat threats to biodiversity locally and empower residents to take part in conservation efforts on their doorstep.
The first East Lothian Biodiversity Action Plan was produced in 2003. This updated plan outlines a vision for the next decade to regenerate biodiversity across land, freshwater, coast, and marine habitats while giving the community a vital role in their stewardship.
By setting out actions to be delivered by stakeholders in the Biodiversity Partnership, Government agencies such as NatureScot, NGOs, neighbouring local authorities, and community groups, the LBAP focuses on helping the natural environment, habitats, ecosystems, and species to be diverse, thriving, and adaptable to climate change.
Developed with expertise from local specialists and community members, the plan identifies priorities for protecting and augmenting East Lothian’s ecosystems and wildlife. The detailed guide covers biodiversity county-wide whether your interest in the subject is personal, professional or both, and outlines positive steps which can be taken to improve its conservation.
Healthy and resilient
The Biodiversity Partnership will review the plan and its progress annually to monitor that agreed targets are being met.
Councillor John McMillan, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment, Economic Development and Tourism, said: “The LBAP recognises that biodiversity is under threat, both nationally and globally. I’m proud that East Lothian is doing its part to try and conserve and enhance important species and habitats through local action to help us tackle the interlinked climate and nature emergencies.
“The LBAP identifies ways we can contribute towards mitigating further biodiversity loss, making sure that our habitats and ecosystems are healthy and resilient. It will improve and support biodiversity along with benefitting the wellbeing and quality of life for people in East Lothian.
“Community action has long played an important role in delivering biodiversity projects in the county, and the new LBAP will continue to champion people’s voices. That’s why I would encourage anyone who wants to support this mission to take part in the consultation and give their feedback.”
The consultation will run until Friday, 10 October and anyone who wishes to share their views on the plan can visit CitizenSpace.
Share your views on the Biodiversity Action Plan
People can also attend pop-up events where council officers will share information on the LBAP at the following locations:
Tranent Library - Saturday, 6 September (10am to 1pm)
Haddington Library - Tuesday, 9 September (2pm to 5pm)
North Berwick Library - Thursday, 18 September (4pm to 7pm)
Longniddry Library - Friday, 19 September (2pm to 5pm)
Musselburgh Library - Monday, 29 September (4pm to 7pm)
Dunbar Library - Monday, 4 October (10am to 1pm)