National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development
Prepared by the Ecologically Sustainable Development Steering Committee
Endorsed by the Council of Australian Governments
December, 1992
ISBN 0 644 27253 8
Biological Diversity
Part 3 Intersectoral Issues - Chapter 9
Challenge
To protect biological diversity and maintain ecological processes and systems.
Strategic Approach
This can best be done by improving the level of coordination of the current range of activities in this area; implementing Australia's international obligations; strengthening the practical skills and knowledge of land managers; completing strategies for the management of plant and animal pests, improving management of veterinary chemicals, and conserving native vegetation, including encouraging off-reserve conservation.
Objective 9.1
- to develop effective mechanisms for minimising human, pest plant and animal impacts on ecological systems, expand habitats for native species of plants and animals, while maintaining a diverse and healthy economy
Governments will:
- continue cooperative work, actions and initiatives contained under the Landcare, Save the Bush and Endangered Species Programs and the National Forests Policy Statement
- ensure mechanisms, including legislation, for the protection, conservation and management of flora and fauna reflect ESD principles
- through ANZECC, and in consultation with relevant Ministerial Councils, assess the implications of the Convention on Biological Diversity and the draft National Strategy for the Conservation of Australia's Biological Diversity
- on the basis of this assessment, finalise, implement, monitor, and review the National Strategy for the Conservation of Australia's Biological Diversity
- at the Commonwealth level, and following consultation with States and Territories, work towards ratification of the Convention on Biological Diversity. Once it comes into effect, obligations under this Convention would include:
- identification and monitoring important components of biological diversity
- measures for in situ and ex situ conservation
- encouraging integration of the mechanisms for conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity into decision making processes
- reporting on measures taken to implement the convention and their effectiveness