Ever wondered what Biodiversity means?
Find out what it is and how we can preserve it here
What is Biodiversity and why does it matter?
Biodiversity is the word used to describe the incredible variety of wildlife on the Earth, It includes all living things, their interactions and surroundings (or 'habitats'), and not only rare or threatened species but also the commonplace and familiar.
Biodiversity is all around us but human activities are destroying it at an increasing rate. Our use of the land, pollution of the air and water in exploitation of plants and animals threatens species and many habitats that were once plentiful are now scarce. We should not take biodiversity for granted as no organism (least of all ourselves!) can exist in isolation from other living things which feed, clothe and sustain us. It is this balance that contributes to the health of our planet and which we depend upon to survive. It also has other wider roles contributing to local economies through cultivation and tourism, and by providing medicines and other health benefits.
How can we preserve and enhance Biodiversity?
Though a densely urbanised inner London borough, there are a surprising number of different habitats. The River Thames and Grand Union canal provide tidal wetlands and waterways while parks and gardens form well over half of our open spaces and provide daily opportunities to see wildlife of various kinds. 
Other valuable habitats include old vegetated walls, railway line sides, and patches of woodland and scrub. Many local schools and residential gardens have small ponds.
The council in partnership with the Local Agenda 21 forum has produced a Biodiversity Action Plan for the borough. This includes proposals for a programme of wildlife and habitat survey work, which anyone can take part in. If you are interested or want to find out more contact:
- Stephen McAndrews at stephen.mcandrews@lbhf.gov.uk or telephone 020 8753 3329
- The LA21 forum at mail@haf21.org.uk
Visit the first Local Nature Reserve at Wormwood Scrubs
Wormwood Scrubs Park is a vast open grassland situated in the north of the borough. It has always been recognised as a special site due to its sense of space, rugged feel and variety of plants and animals. In July 2002 part of the 'Scrubs', as locals affectionately refer to it, was designated by the council as a Local Nature Reserve, the first in the borough. This acknowledged the valuable wildlife in the area and the need to manage it positively for the enjoyment of people now and for future generations. English Nature has provided funds for a part time wildlife officer for the reserve who is employed by Groundwork West London.
If you want to find out more about Wormwood Scrubs LNR and what is going on then have a look at the Wormwood Scrubs LNR Community Network website or call Jon Gurr at Groundwork West London on 020 8743 3040. 
Calling all volunteers!
There are many different groups and organisations that need your help. Check out the websites below for further information.
- British Trust for Conservation Volunteers www.btcv.org
- London Wildlife Trust www.wildlondon.org.uk
- Royal Society for the Protection of Birds www.rspb.org.uk
Top 5 Biodiversity tips for the home:
- Attract butterflies to your garden by planting nectar bearing flowers. A mixture of flowers attracts more helpful insects and less pests.
- Compost your old vegetable peelings to make a rich fertiliser for your soil. if you buy compost, make sure it is peat free to prevent destruction of peat bogs.
- Give birds a helping hand at nesting time (spring) by putting out suitable nesting materials. You could hang small bundles of straw, fine sticks and shredded woollen jumpers close to your feeding station.
- Take part in the London Wildlife Trust's garden survey and let them know what species you have seen in your garden.
- Build a wildlife pond to provide a home to frogs, toads and newts in your garden.
