Biodiversity - the diversity of plant and animal species in a particular area - is a key indicator of the health and stability of wildlife habitats and ecosystems. Airport developments and day-to-day operations can reduce biodiversity through the loss or degradation of wildlife habitats. Preserving natural habitats and wildlife is important to the quality of life of local communities. Protecting biodiversity is also important to a wide range of local and national stakeholders. As pollution from airports can impact on local biodiversity, particularly sensitive aquatic ecosystems, such habitats must be protected in compliance with relevant legislation.

Our approach
We recognise the need to manage our impacts on local biodiversity that arise from everyday airport operations, and we aim to minimise these impacts wherever possible. For example, during the construction of major infrastructure projects, we work closely with organisations such as Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) to minimise disruption to local wildlife and ecosystems.