To read the full report, click on the following link:
http://www.environ.ie/en/Heritage/NationalParksandWildlife/Biodiversity/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,17321,en.pdf
The report, produced by a consortium led by Dr Craig Bullock of Optimize Consulting, considered a number of key sectors including agriculture, forestry, infrastructure development, human health and climate change. By drawing a comparison between the value of ecosystem services provided by biodiversity and the cost of implementing biodiversity protection policies, the authors established a marginal value of biodiversity to Ireland of at least €2.6 billion per annum.
Minister Gormley also advised that the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government would be preparing a revised Biodiversity Strategy for Ireland during 2008 and this new report highlights the need for a strong engagement from both the public and private sectors.
