This is a dynamic period for UK conservation law and policy with a number of key developments currently underway which have significant implications for our day-to-day work. In order to understand the changing landscape, this course provides an introductory level review of nature conservation legislation, looking at how the current framework translates to practical actions, and considering how effective it is in achieving its aims. Whilst taking a UK perspective, this particular course focusses specifically on England.
Participants on the course will develop a strong practical understanding of the system of nature conservation governance in England, and how the new laws and policies impact our work on the ground.
The course will provide six hours of learning, designed around two interactive online sessions that will endeavour to draw on the knowledge held within each cohort through ‘real-world’ decision-making based on the use of specific case studies. Supporting materials will be provided beforehand, with activities between the sessions, and resources to take away afterwards. These include a glossary created specifically for attendees. The online sessions will be participatory and participants will work through a live case study which will help bring the ‘dry’ legal and policy context to life. The case study will provide opportunities to explore how a wide range of conservation laws and policies work in practice including: terrestrial and marine SSSIs; protected species legislation; national park protection; new buffers for protected areas; and sites of local importance for nature conservation.
There will be plenty of opportunities for debate and for participants to share experiences and ask questions related to their work.