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Project title

A GIS-supported Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Methodology

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University College Dublin (UCD)

Lead Applicant

Tamara Hochstrasser

Project Abstract

An IBIA methodology is necessary to rationalise current assessment processes and accommodate likely future changes. In order to improve practice, the immediate aim is to help eliminate contradictory evaluations and decrease duplication. A GIS-supported IBIA will help address observed spatial variations in biodiversity distribution and connectivity, and it will aid integration between legislation, policy goals, and planning objectives, enabling a cost-effective identification of cross-sectoral opportunities and conflicts. This proposal combines desk-studies with national and international participative consultation. It will include the review of legal obligations, policy objectives and administrative framework, and current best-practice IBIA procedures, as well as the audit of available datasets, in order to develop a robust system incorporating experience and international best practice. Indicators will be developed to evaluate the performance of the methodology concerning 1) legislative compliance, 2) harmonisation of legislation, policy and techniques and 3) public sector skill-sets development and administrative efficiency. The methodology will address the previous deficit in Irish guidance on assessment and clarify the requirements for AA, SEA and EIA. Beyond that, the methodology will seek to respond to obligations under other EU Directives and be suitably flexible to accommodate future assessment needs and expansion into other environmental components The proposal's main output will be a comprehensive and comprehendible methodology for GIS-supported IBIA in Ireland. Recommendations on scope and scale of applications will also be provided. The research will be documented through 1) an integrated report encompassing reviews of the legislative and policy obligations, best practice methodologies, and data gaps, and 2) a validation report from feedback following participative consultation with national and international experts. Furthermore, the project will create and maintain a website and prepare a final project report according to EPA requirements. The research work will also result in a peer-reviewed journal publication.

Grant Approved

�46,862.45

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Sectoral Impacts on Biodiversity

Start Date

01/04/2011

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/04/2012