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Status and Trends of Biodiversity

Overview

Ireland’s climate is mild and its geology is exceptionally diverse. The extended coastline and large expanse of territorial waters have contributed to its extraordinary maritime and marine diversity, while it's "saucer-like" topography (with most of the montane areas concentrated near the coast, rather than along a central spine) created circumstances for the development of extensive and diverse freshwater wetlands. Among the features of international importance are the unique juxtapositions of Mediterranean flora (and fauna) with species of colder climates, the extensive coverage of peat lands, and the exceptional range of coastal and wetland bird species in summer and winter. Some of the habitats for which Ireland is most famous, such as the machair of the west and northwest coast and the limestone pavement, are the result of the interaction of nature with an agricultural regime that stabilized in post-famine times. Presently, habitat degradation and loss constitute the main factors eroding biodiversity. (NBSAP and 3rd National Report)

National Biodiversity Strategy Action Plan

Major features of National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan

The main objectives relate to the sustainable use and the conservation of habitat, species, and genetic diversity. The NBSAP comprises four principles, which, respectively, state that: the conservation of biodiversity is essential for sustainable development and for maintaining the quality of human life; each form of biodiversity is unique and of value in its own right; all sectors and actors are responsible for advancing the conservation of biodiversity in their respective areas; and the “polluter pays principle” and the “precautionary principle” will be supported. The main activities focus notably on sectoral integration of biodiversity concerns, legislation, protected areas, species conservation, habitat and ecosystem conservation, biosafety, knowledge, and public awareness and education. (NBSAP)
 

• National Biodiversity Strategy Action Plan Part 1 (English)
• National Biodiversity Strategy Action Plan Part 2 (English)
• National Biodiversity Strategy Action Plan Part 3 (English)
• National Biodiversity Strategy Action Plan (English)

Implementation of the Convention

Measures Taken to Achieve the 2010 Target

Ireland is bound by the terms of national strategies, such as Ireland’s National Strategy for Plant Conservation, and international legislation, like the EU Habitats, Birds and Water Framework Directives. The country intends to conserve 10% of each plans’ habitats in an efficient manner. Red Data Books currently exist for vertebrates, vascular plants and stoneworts. Further Red Data Books are planned for lichens and bryophytes and Red Lists are in preparation for some invertebrate groups. Furthermore, a conservation plan for the Natterjack Toad is being implemented. Draft species action plans have also been prepared in regard to the Irish Hare, the Pollan, the Corncrake, and Irish Lady’s Tresses Orchids. Species action plans are being prepared for the freshwater mussel, the Red Squirrel and several bat species. In addition, an all-island review of alien species has recently been completed, and a strategy is being drawn up for implementation of the recommendations. In the meantime measures are in place for the control and management of certain species such as the rhododendron, ponticum, and zebra mussel. A new list of prohibited weeds is being drafted with the aim of banning the sale, introduction, release or movement, notably of aquatic alien plants. With respect to cooperation with other countries, Development Cooperation Ireland, the country’s programme of assistance, is collaborating in the implementation of African projects such as the Great Apes Survival Project and the Biodiversity of African Mangroves. (3rd National Report)

Initiatives in Protected Areas

Ireland has designated 11% of its national territory as part of the Natura 2000 network. Among others activities related to this issue, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government has set a number of targets in relation to their natural heritage. Significant resources have been expended in particular for the completion of the Natura 2000 sites. Approximately 428,000 ha of marine areas have also been proposed for designation as Natura 2000 sites and are currently being evaluated by the European Commission.

Initiatives for Article 8(j)

In this regard, the Third National Report mentions that Ireland supports capacity building for the promotion of community based biodiversity protection and conservation in fragile catchment and river basin ecosystems in East Africa through best practices in land management. (3rd National Report)