Progress and plans
Mission
The overarching mission of the National Biodiversity Data Centre is to provide national co-ordination and standards of biodiversity data and recording, assist the mainstreaming of biodiversity data and information into decision making, planning, conservation management and research, and encourage greater engagement by society in documenting and appreciating biodiversity.
Funding
Core funding is provided by the Heritage Council and the Department of Culture, Heritage & the Gaeltacht.
History
The National Biodiversity Data Centre was established in 2007 following policy advice from the Heritage Council of Ireland. Ireland’s 2nd National Biodiversity Action Plan identifies key national actions to which the Data Centre leads or contributes.
The Data Centre also develops, manages and delivers a suit of National Biodiversity Indicators, and is responsible for reporting to the European Commission under the EU Invasive Species Regulations.
Structure
The National Biodiversity Data Centre is governed by a Management Board, established by the Heritage Council of Ireland, a statutory advisory council. Representatives of a number of national institutions sit on the Board, including The Heritage Council, National Parks and Wildlife Service, National Museum of Ireland, National Botanic Gardens, Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Waterford Institute of Technology.