What is biodiversity?

Biodiversity can be defined simply as the diversity of living things. It can be measured on a genetic level (diversity of genes within a species); on a species level (the number of different species); and at an ecosystem level (i.e. grassland, wetland). All three levels of biodiversity are connected and must be protected, as we depend on healthy natural systems for our own survival and wellbeing. We also recognise that climate change poses a significant threat to biodiversity.

Biodiversity Plan Overview

The draft Biodiversity Plan responds to our Council Plan 'Planet' key direction to ‘protect and enhance our natural environment’, whilst supporting other key directions such as environmental stewardship.

Council's work in protecting and enhancing biodiversity in Banyule is guided by four strategic themes:

• Minimise threats to biodiversity – we will address key threats or processes that impact on biodiversity (especially Climate Change)
• Engagement and education – we will provide programs and resources to ensure the community has the knowledge, attitude and skills to protect and enhance biodiversity outcomes
• Manage land for biodiversity – we will manage Council land for biodiversity, based on sound ecological principles
• Partnerships – we will establish community and program partners to deliver enhancement and protection activities on both public and private land.

Thank you for your comments. Feedback is now closed. Your feedback will be used to help us finalise our draft Biodiversity Plan.