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Chapter 6
Nature and Biodiversity
Humanity is dependent on nature for survival. Its protection is also
of ethical and economic concern. Ireland’s marine and terrestrial
environment supports a wide variety of species and habitats, many
of which are of international importance. Many species are doing
well in conservation terms, but there are a significant number of
habitats and species that are not. While progress has been made
in the designation of EU-protected areas in Ireland, several areas
of national importance remain undesignated and significant
aspects of biodiversity in Ireland are under considerable threat
from unsustainable activities.
Ireland has international and legal obligations to protect biodiversity.
These include a commitment to halt biodiversity loss by 2020.
Protection of biodiversity within and outside protected areas is
necessary and will require greater integration of biodiversity concerns
in sectoral policy development and implementation, at local and
national levels. Ireland’s second National Biodiversity Plan (2011–
2016) includes a programme of measures aimed at meeting Ireland’s
biodiversity obligations. Full implementation of the plan will help
ensure the sustainable management of biological resources and
protection of biodiversity for future generations.