Biodiversity must be protected (Mole Valley Liberal Democrats)

Mole Valley Liberal Democrats <info@molevalleylibdems.org.uk>

Biodiversity must be protected

April 20, 2010 4:00 PM
Originally published by Catherine Bearder MEP

Catherine launches her Written Declaration on biodiversity at the European Parliament

Lib Dem Euro MP, Catherine Bearder, today launched a campaign to intensify the EU's commitment to protecting the world's threatened ecosystems and endangered species.

The UN has declared 2010 as the International Year of Biodiversity. To coincide with this, Catherine Bearder MEP is urging other MEPs to sign her Written Declaration* on protecting and valuing biodiversity in Europe. MEPs can be contacted via the 'They work for you' website.

At the launch Catherine said, "Europe has a rich biodiversity that needs protecting from short-sighted action and climate change."

"The EU must work towards a system of protection that acknowledges the true economic and social value of biodiversity and ecosystems."

"In many sectors there is a clear link between biodiversity and our economic productivity. The future of Europe's farmers and fishermen will be threatened if we cannot guarantee the survival of the land they sow and the fish they catch."

"Many people come to visit the beautiful nature reserves and national parks all across Europe. Ecotourism is growing in size and can play a big part in building a new green economy across Europe."

"It is cheaper to protect our biodiversity today than it will be to replace it tomorrow, if it would even be possible. Extinction is looming for much of our wildlife and extinction is forever."

"If you care about the survival of our planet's ecosystems then contact your MEPs and get them to sign my Written Declaration."

A Written Declaration is a written statement that launches a debate on an issue that falls within the EU's remit. If it is signed by a majority of MEPs, it is forwarded to the European Commission to act on.