Why is biodiversity important?

Biodiversity is the variety of life - all living things around us; the plants, animals, insects in our forests, mountains, rivers, seas, gardens and parks, right down to the things living in our soils. It is the living bank balance which supports all our lives and is vital for our survival.

Biodiversity provides us with crucial resources like fresh air and clean water for our daily lives and because it is basically our life support system it is really important that we look after it properly. But that is no easy task and it needs the help of many different people throughout Scotland and the UK to achieve this.

In Scotland, our aim is for Scotland to become a world leader in biodiversity conservation. Local authorities and other public sector agencies are taking a leading role in implementing the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy  , which will achieve this.

School estates can be hugely influential in responding to these aims. Children play there and learn there, so a biodiversity project, as well as being of direct benefit to the environment, will influence young people's interests and attitudes. School grounds may also be open to other members of the community and biodiversity projects can provide an important focus for local community groups.

Case Study - Abernethy Primary School

Abernethy Primary School used their school grounds to explore their natural heritage. A quiet area was developed within the playground to include three hand carved oak benches, incorporating wildlife images designed by the children; information panels designed by the children linked to the salmon, the red squirrel and the sea eagle; creation of a habitat pile; animal footprints; planting of native tree and shrub species and the addition of wildlife resources such as bird boxes.

Find out more about Abernethy Primary School.