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Best Value and Biodiversity in Scotland: A HANDBOOK OF GOOD PRACTICE FOR PUBLIC BODIES
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This document is for Scottish public bodies, in particular local authorities, which have a statutory duty to secure best value under the Local Government in Scotland Act 2003.
In addition to this statutory duty to secure best value, the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 has created a duty on public bodies "in exercising any functions, to further the conservation of biodiversity so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions". In due course, the Scottish Executive will issue formal guidance on this legislation to all public bodies. This Scottish Biodiversity Forum publication "Best Value and Biodiversity in Scotland" presents public bodies with ideas and options for furthering the conservation of biodiversity whilst pursuing best value.
The publication has two elements: "
why" and "
how" to contribute to the delivery of biodiversity conservation through best value.
Why? Chapters 1 and 2 identify the legislative and policy obligations and drivers relating to biodiversity and explore the opportunities for biodiversity delivery through the best value process. Brief explanations of the relevance of best value and sustainable development are followed by a consideration of the importance of biodiversity.
How? The remainder of the document provides practical advice on how to meet best value and biodiversity obligations and sets out the benefits of incorporating biodiversity into the delivery of all relevant local authority services.
The publication also offers a series of case studies on biodiversity conservation action already taken by local authorities in relation to best value, and a summary of existing publications that offer advice and guidance for biodiversity conservation.
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