The United Nations has declared 2010 as the International Year of Biodiversity. This will be the year that will celebrate the diversity of life on Earth which includes every flora, fauna and micro-organism.

Biodiversity is the name used to describe the variety of all living things within an environment. It covers everything from bacteria to blue whales and algae to giant redwood trees. Environments where these organisms live may include woodland, heath, rivers, even cities! Such places are called habitats and are home to different types of plants and animals.

Approximately 30 percent of Hounslow borough's surface land area is made up of public open space and urban green space. The wildlife value of different open spaces varies greatly. It is estimated that 954 hectares are managed either wholly or partly for nature conservation but many other areas have incidental nature conservation value.

Since the launch of Hounslow borough's Biodiversity Action Plan in 2003, Hounslow has been working with a range of Partnership organisations to increase the level of biodiversity management across Hounslow borough's SINCs (Sites of Important Nature Conservation). The numbers of habitats and species that have been identified as key species across the borough have increased which have resulted in a range of different conservation measures being implemented to protect and enhance them.

What is happening in Hounslow throughout 2010?
Throughout 2010, a number of events will be taking place in Hounslow borough's parks and open spaces which will aim to raise awareness of biodiversity in Hounslow and our open spaces. To find out what is taking place near you and when please visit: http://www.hounslow.info/arts/HounslowInfoEvents.htm The events will range from ecological surveys, exhibitions, wildlife walks, butterfly, moth, owl and bat nights, picnics and family fun weekends etc.

The council will also be launching the new Hounslow Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015 and the boroughs Parks Strategy. Both documents will be out for consultation throughout summer and autumn 2010. Further information will be released over the coming months.

If you would like to get involved in biodiversity activities, or would like further information, please visit the Hounslow biodiversity pages or contact: environmental.strategy@hounslow.gov.uk