Biodiversity overview
What is biodiversity?
Biodiversity is vital to our wellbeing and key to the quality of life in Staffordshire. A healthy environment is also central to the economic prosperity and the county's desirability as a place to live, work and visit.
It is a fundamental indicator of whether we are succeeding in achieving a sustainable future for Staffordshire. We are committed to conserving biodiversity as an intimate component of sustainable development.
Staffordshire supports a varied and diverse landscape which is rich in habitats and species. In recent decades loss of Staffordshire's biodiversity has been dramatic and it is essential that all remaining areas are protected and managed and that wildlife areas previously lost are restored wherever possible.
Our Natural Environment Strategy
As a County Council, we are the guardians of some of Staffordshire’s finest areas for wildlife. Our country parks support wildlife of international, national, and local importance, and provide great opportunities for people to interact with nature. Less well-known is the great work we are also doing for nature in other places, across business parks and schools, for example.
But there is more to do, and never has there been a more crucial time to take action. Our nature recovery declaration, made by Full Council in 2022, confirmed our commitment to protecting wildlife. This strategy sets out the actions we will take across our functions, reflecting our strengthened duty to enhance biodiversity. It includes actions across all our functions and provides the means to keep track of what we are doing.
Staffordshire County Council Natural Environment Strategy 2024 - 26 (935 KB)
What about nature?
Nature is also important to help us maintain a healthy lifestyle, for environmental education and lifelong learning about the world around us. It is fundamental to our heritage, culture and sense of place and provides relaxation and inspiration. Providing access to nature is important for all within the community.
The ecologists within the Rural County Unit provide a range of services to ensure wildlife is protected and cared for across the county. The ecologists provide advice on land management, particularly country parks such as Cannock Chase, in addition to advice to planners and engineers.
To speak to someone about any of the above, please contact us.