Book review: Thomson's wildlife on site handbook 2011/2012

Thomson’s wildlife on site handbook 2011/2012

Thomson Ecology / Paperback: £14.99
Online version available

Following the international agreement to halt biodiversity loss by 2020, made in Nagoya, Japan last October, the protection of wildlife and habitat is a particularly hot topic for governments at the moment.

It is important therefore for environmentalists, especially those working on civil engineering and construction projects, to keep abreast of the latest legislative developments.

Published by consultancy Thomson Ecology, this handbook provides a concise and clear overview of the key legislation and case law covering ecological protection in England (an edition covering Wales is also available).

It also covers recent developments, such as the natural environment white paper published in June 2011.

The book includes tables of important international, European and national regulations, details of when licences are required, and useful calendars showing when it is best to carry out surveys and mitigation action.

Most useful is the section of the book dedicated to practical guidance on specific protected species and habitats and what you need to consider if they are on your site.

Overall, this is a helpful, quick reference guide for non-specialists.