International Day for Biological Diversity 2021

21 May 2021

International Day for Biological Diversity 2021

The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) takes place on 22 May 2021 and is a United Nations–sanctioned international day to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues:

"As the global community is called to re-examine our relationship to the natural world, one thing is certain: despite all our technological advances we are completely dependent on healthy and vibrant ecosystems for our water, food, medicines, clothes, fuel, shelter and energy, just to name a few.

In 2021 the theme is “We’re part of the solution”. The slogan was chosen to be a continuation of the momentum generated last year under the over-arching theme, “Our solutions are in nature”, which served as a reminder that biodiversity remains the answer to several sustainable development challenges. From nature-based solutions to climate, health issues, food and water security, and sustainable livelihoods, biodiversity is the foundation upon which we can build back better."

We're part of the solution…

At McGowan Environmental Engineering, we pride ourselves on being Naturally Different through our environmentally sensitive and sympathetic approach. This ethos is further reinforced through our CARE Values, one of which is ‘Respect the Environment’.

We very much ‘are part of the solution’ and in addition to our Coastal Protection, Hydro Energy Schemes, River Restoration & Flood Prevention services, in the past four years we have restored over 1000 hectares of peatland.

Peatland Restoration is one of the most effective ways of locking carbon and offers a clear nature-based solution to the climate crisis. Healthy peatland is great for improving biodiversity and enhancing natural habitats for plants, animals and microorganisms.

We have been leading an extensive peatland restoration project at Lynaberack Estate in recent years, with the aim of restoring over 110 hectares of eroding blanket bog. The use of specialist equipment, innovative materials and hand-build techniques were deployed throughout, with the project increasing carbon capture, enhancing the blanket bog habitat and improving biodiversity.

Here is a video highlighting our work at Lynaberack Estate, where we provide a local solution to the global climate crisis…

Thanks to our friends at Scotland: The Big Picture for producing the video, to Thomas MacDonell (Director of Conservation at Wildland Ltd) and Stephen Corcoran (Peatland ACTION Programme Manager at Cairngorms National Park Authority) for their contributions and continued support.