Natural England - 2010 declared International Year of Biodiversity by United Nations
2010 declared International Year of Biodiversity by United Nations
4 January 2010
National Nature Reserves across the West Midlands offer unique opportunities to find out about the variety and richness of life on earth and to enjoy nature at its best. Get out and about this winter!
2010 has been designated the International Year of Biodiversity by the UN, to highlight the plight of life on our planet and the links between us, our food, fuel medicine and other essentials of life. And, to start the year off, in the West Midlands, Natural England is encouraging everyone to visit one of our 16 National Nature Reserves* this winter to learn a little more about the richness and variety of the natural world around us, and the need to safeguard our irreplaceable natural wealth.
National Nature Reserves or (NNRs) are the ‘jewels’ of England’s wildlife and geological treasures and most of them offer opportunities throughout the year to enjoy spectacular landscapes and see many rare and fascinating creatures.
National Nature Reserves were initially established to protect sensitive features and to provide ‘outdoor laboratories’ for research. Their purpose has widened since those early days. As well as managing some of our most pristine habitats, our rarest species and our most significant geology, most NNRs now offer great opportunities to the public as well as schools and specialist audiences to experience England’s natural heritage.
Roger Owen, Regional Director of Natural England in the West Midlands said: “ Natural England directly manages about two thirds of England’s National Nature Reserves and in this area we really do have some gems. So whether your interest is in getting away from it all, learning about wildlife or taking part in organised walks and educational events, the International Year of Biodiversity is a wake up call to us all to learn more about how the richness of our biodiversity is being lost, because ultimately it will affect us all”.
The International launch of the Year of Biodiversity will be in Germany on 11th January 2010. The Natural History Museum in London hosted a press preview last month when guests heard Dr Ahmed Djoghlaf, Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity press for an urgent response to halt the current unprecedented loss of species.
The launch event sets in motion a year of IYB activities around the UK, to promote a better understanding of biodiversity and highlight biodiversity loss.
Recreational use of the countryside has increased considerably in recent years. In the West Midlands we benefit from 22,345 kms, of footpaths, bridleways and byways across the region, supplemented by over 400 miles of canal towpaths. There are several dedicated cycleways, part of the National Cycle Network, well-promoted walking routes, The Offas Dyke Path National Trail and four Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Malvern Hills and the Shropshire Hills, Cannock Chase and The Wye Valley, as well as a range of country parks.
*National Nature Reserves in the West Midlands – please check before your visit as some operate restricted or seasonal access.
Herefordshire
Downton Gorge
Moccas Park
The Flits
Shropshire
Fenn's, Whixall and Bettisfield Mosses
Stiperstones
Wem Moss
Staffordshire
Aqualate Mere
Chartley Moss
Hulme Quarry
Mottey Meadows
West Midlands
Sutton Park
Wren's Nest
Worcestershire
Bredon Hill
Chaddesley Woods
Foster's Green
Meadows Wyre Forest
http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/regions/west_midlands/visiting/default.aspx for more information about all the natural wonders in the West Midlands this winter and a complete list of all National Nature Reserves, or contact the Natural England Enquiry Service on 0845 600 3078
For further information contact: Judie Kellie on 01299 896 555/ 07973 744161 judie@jkpr.co.uk or Dean Gallen on Dean.G.Gallen@naturalengland.org.uk
- ends –
Notes to Editors:
Natural England is the government’s independent advisor on the natural environment. Established in 2006 our work is focused on enhancing England’s wildlife and landscapes and maximising the benefits they bring to the public.
About National Nature Reserves
National Nature Reserves were initially established to protect sensitive features and to provide ‘outdoor laboratories’ for research. Their purpose has widened since those early days. As well as managing some of our most pristine habitats, our rarest species and our most significant geology, most NNRs now offer great opportunities to the public as well as schools and specialist audiences to experience England’s natural heritage. Natural England is the body empowered to declare NNRs in England, the Reserves being a selection of the very best parts of England’s Sites of Special Scientific Interest. It is this underlying designation which gives NNRs their strong legal protection. The majority also have European nature conservation designations.