Environmental and Scientific Research in the Falkland Islands
The Falkland Islands Government welcomes environmental and scientific research of Falklands wildlife, habitats and landscapes.
Environmental legislation in the Falkland Islands provides for the protection for all species of birds (with some exceptions), marine mammals, some other animals (e.g. all butterflies) and a list of specially protected plants. Under the ordinance, a licence to disturb, handle or collect protected species is only issued for purposes of scientific research and education.
Researchers are asked to complete the research licence form and send it to the Environmental Planning Department. Electronic submission is preferred, and the form and any associated documents should be submitted in word format only.
The Falkland Islands Research licence form can be downloaded here:
Falklands Research licence form
Further information regarding the research licence form, the application process, import and export of biological material, bird ringing and bio-prospecting can be downloaded here:
Falklands Research licence notes
Most applications go to the Environmental Committee, which meets every two or three months. This may add considerable time to the determination of the application. For this reason, we emphasise the need for early contact with officers of the Environmental Planning Department, particularly for projects undertaken by research workers based outside of the Falkland Islands.
FIG Environmental Studies Budget
Annually, the Falkland Islands Government provides a sum of approximately £40,000 for environmental research, awareness raising, and conservation and management activities. The Environmental Committee is responsible for allocating the 'Environmental Studies Budget' (ESB) funds to owners and managers of land, non governmental organisations and international scientists that conduct research and conservation activities in the Falkland Islands.
Projects eligible for ESB funding must assist in the management of the biodiversity of the Falkland Islands. Priority will be given to initiatives addressing the key three themes of the draft 'Falkland Islands Biodiversity Strategy', which are environmental research, on-ground action and education. The Environmental Committee allocates the ESB in two rounds in September and February.
Applicants are encouraged to discuss proposed projects with the EPD Environmental Officer prior to submission and she can also help draft your application.
Further information regarding the ESB can be downloaded here:
ESB Funding Information/Application form
Environmental Planning Department
Web: www.epd.gov.fk
E-mail: epdfig@mail.com
Tel.: + 500 27390
Fax: + 500 27391
Post: PO Box 611, Stanley, Falkland Islands, FIQQ 1ZZ
