Ecological Networks

This briefing note considers the potential conservation benefits of implementing ecological networks in the UK.

Over the last century, there has been a substantial reduction in the total area of many semi-natural habitats in the UK, particularly in lowland areas, such as loss of woodland. Further to this loss and resulting habitat fragmentation, there has also been a continuing process of land use intensification from agriculture and urbanisation. Small and isolated patches of semi-natural habitat within intensively used landscapes have become more vulnerable to degradation, with reduced opportunities for migration of species between them.

Ecological networks may require a range of management approaches to respond to this (currently there are around 250 such networks globally), including: core areas prioritising the conservation of biodiversity; movement routes, allowing species to travel between core areas; and buffer zones protecting the network from damaging human impacts.

The UK Biodiversity Partnership has suggested that 'ecological networks should be established and strengthened by programmes of habitat restoration and creation to improve opportunities for dispersal across landscapes and between regions in response to climate change.'

Ecological networks have already been defined for England, Scotland and Wales. A pan-UK national ecological network is in development, as are several regional networks.

Data on the abilities required for species to move through landscapes are limited and likely to remain so. Nevertheless, under climate change, many species will need to change their current distributions to new sites and areas with suitable climatic conditions. In some cases, non-native species may invade, presenting a significant threat to biodiversity and ecological impacts which are difficult to reverse. Non-native species also affect economic interests, particularly within agriculture, horticulture and forestry.

Dated 29/02/2008

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Owning Organisation

Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology - http://www.parliament.uk/parliamentary_offices/post.cfm

Data Type

Research Report

Spatial Coverage

UK

Theme

Environment