One of the great capital cities of the world, it is easily possible to experience nature in the thriving metropolis. Spanning over 1613 square kilometres bisected by the meandering River Thames, London's environment has everything from extensive wild areas of woodland, heath, wetlands and marshes to more formal parks and city squares and informal private gardens. The total wealth of wildlife in and around is considerable. Even in the most heavily built-up areas, amongst the roar of traffic, you may see a peregrine falcon overhead, or enjoy the summer flight of a stag beetle, for which London is a national stronghold, as you sit in your garden.

The London Biodiversity Partnership was established in 1996 in response to the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The Partnership aims to protect and enhance the capital's habitats and species for future generations to benefit from and enjoy. There are now 31 Action Plans: 11 habitats, 12 species, and 8 Generic Action Plans covering cross-cutting issues. There are also 'Statements' for the house martin, 'humble bumble' and London's exotic flora.

As a partnership of public, private and voluntary organisations and also individuals the Partnership identifies what action is needed through building consensus. Partners work together to take this action forwards - pooling resources, applying for funding together, delivering work through their own organisations and activities. By bringing partners on board from sectors not traditionally thought of as relevant to conservation, the Partnership aims to broaden the impact of its work, encouraging others to modify their activities so that they benefit biodiversity.

We hope you enjoy these pages which will tell you more about our work.

Why not have a look at our news and events page to see what is going on and how you can get involved in celebrating London's rich and varied wildlife?