International conventions
The Isle of Man is subject to a number of international conventions, by extension from the United Kingdom, as signatory, including the following environmental agreements with direct relevance to wildlife conservation.
Convention on Biological Diversity
This is one of the three 1990 Rio conventions. It covers the conservation of biological diversity and sustainable use of wildlife. See the Biodiversity Strategy page for details of work on the IoM.
Bonn Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS)
Requires the conservation of migratory species and their habitats, paying special attention to those with an unfavourable conservation status. A number of agreements have been signed under this convention:
- Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds
- Agreement on the Conservation of Populations of European Bats
- Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels
- Agreement on the Conservation of Small Cetaceans of the Baltic, North East Atlantic, Irish and North Seas
Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats
Requires the conservation of wild flora and fauna and their natural habitats, especially those requiring the co-operation of states, and with emphasis on endangered or vulnerable species. It also requires the conservation of endangered natural habitats and the prohibition of indiscriminate methods of capture or killing.
Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, especially as waterfowl habitat
Promotes the wise use and protection of wetlands and the designation of wetlands of international importance. The Island designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance at Ballaugh Curragh in 2006.
Washington Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna (CITES)
Prohibits or regulates international trade in species which are threatened with extinction or likely to become so and are subject to significant trade. For details of licensing arrangements see the page on import and export of exotic animals and endangered species.
Oslo-Paris Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North East Atlantic (OSPAR)
Requires that all possible steps be taken to prevent and eliminate pollution of the seas. Also, requires that measures be taken to protect the maritime area against the adverse effects of human activities, to safeguard human health and conserve marine ecosystems and, when practicable, restore marine areas which have been adversely affected.
