Environmental considerations are a high priority for the mineral products sector, which is why the Institute of Quarrying (IQ) is encouraging members to secure their place in its popular biodiversity workshops.
The ‘IQ Biodiversity Workshop’ will be delivered by a leading expert on the subject, Andy Littler MIQ and ecologist David Broom. Taking place at the National Stone Centre, Derbyshire, attendees will enhance their skills and knowledge covering how to improve biodiversity, habitats and the landscape during and after quarrying.
James Thorne, IQ CEO, says: “There is so much potential for biodiversity during and after quarrying. Sixty per cent of all Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) are at least in part mineral workings, and there are currently more than 1,000 active mineral sites across the UK, resulting in approximately 140 square miles in quarry control .
“The IQ continues to actively develop training for members and the broader industry around the restoration agenda, including the popular biodiversity workshop. With spaces on this year’s sessions filling up fast, don’t leave it too late to register your attendance.”
The workshop is suited for quarry managers, supervisors, area operations managers, ecologists, restoration managers and those involved in estates management and planning. Delegates will enjoy an interactive and engaging session packed with practical examples. Also included is a field visit to an adjacent nature reserve and quarry restoration scheme in progress. The course qualifies for six hours of certified continuing professional development (CPD).
Andy Littler adds: “Quarries, both active and at the end of their lives are fantastic opportunities for increasing biodiversity. This is true for a host of reasons, including topography, rock and soil types, wetland areas, cliffs and screes, all of which will be covered in the course.
Biodiversity is a very live subject right now. Regulations on Net Gain are in place for all new developments and national treasure David Attenborough has brought the subject to millions via his recent Wild Isles TV series.
Despite efforts to combat biodiversity reduction in the UK, DEFRA’s 2020 update reported 40 percent of priority habitats and 30 percent of priority species had declined during the previous 10 years.”
Andy Littler has spent 40 years in the industry devising and implementing biodiversity action plans and managing restoration schemes. He will be assisted by David Broom, a professional ecologist who has been working with major companies in the extractives industry for over 25 years.
Additional information about the workshop is available online: quarrying.org/biodiversity-workshop-2023
