Sustainable development, conservation and the protection of the environment for future generations are central considerations to future development of the Falkland Islands, and this commitment is laid out in The Islands Plan.
In order to facilitate sustainable future physical development of the Islands, The Falkland Islands Development Plan has been introduced which, for the first time, sets Island-wide planning policy for guiding development and the use of land. This is in two parts: The Falkland Islands Structure Plan and the Stanley Town Plan. Both have a timeframe from 2001 to 2016.
The first Environment Charter, laying out mutual responsibilities of the UK and its Overseas Territories was signed on 26 September 2001 by Councillor Mike Summers, representing the Falkland Islands Government, and Baroness Valerie Amos, Minister of UK Overseas Territories.
The Falkland Islands recently adopted a Biodiversity Strategy 2008 – 2018, which will help to implement the commitments under the Environmental Charter, as well as national environmental legislation, Site Management Plans and Species Action Plans.
Information about these national strategies and the FIG Environmental Planning Department can be found at www.epd.gov.fk.
Environmental management in the Falkland Islands involves a variety of organisations, including landowners, businesses and organisations. There are a number of environmental non-governmental organisations, including Falklands Conservation (www.falklandsconservation.com), New Island Conservation Trust and Antarctic Research Trust.
The Falklands Countryside Code explains how your visit to the Islands should be undertaken to reduce disturbance to our unique species and habitats. The Countryside Code can be downloaded here: The Countryside Code.
