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Protection of invertebrates – the law, protected sites and protective policies

Seminar
11 February 2014, 4pm: Free
at the James Hutton Institute, Aberdeen AB15 8QH
for scientists, students and other interested parties
North Brown Argus butterfly © Geoff Wilkinson

Alistair Watson of the British Arachnological Society will speak on "Protection of invertebrates – the law, protected sites and protective policies" in this Aberdeen Entomological Club talk at the Aberdeen site of the James Hutton Institute.

Abstract

Invertebrates in Scotland can receive protection through a number of mechanisms. This talk gives a broad overview of international and UK level drivers for the current legislative framework in Scotland. It summarises the rationale for the selection of designated sites for invertebrates and ways to regulate activities which could damage special invertebrate interests in those sites, with reference to specific examples in North East Scotland.

It also describes how the biodiversity duty on public bodies is reflected in national and local planning policy and can take into account invertebrates which are not otherwise afforded special legal protection or protection from international or national designations. Finally it highlights the importance and value of invertebrate recording schemes in helping to mitigate gaps in ecological impact assessment.

Biography

Alistair Watson is the Regional Coordinator of the British Arachnological Society for North East Scotland and a Full Member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management. His knowledge of the protection of invertebrate interests has developed through practical experience as an Operations Officer with Scottish Natural Heritage, as an Environmental Planner with a local planning authority and currently as an Environmental Advisor in the electricity transmission industry.

The talks begin at 4pm with light refreshments available from 3.30pm. For further information contact Jenni Stockan.


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The James Hutton Research Institute is the result of the merger in April 2011 of MLURI and SCRI. This merger formed a new powerhouse for research into food, land use, and climate change.