As a result of the Earth Summit in 1992, the Government published a Biodiversity Action Plan in January 1994, aiming to conserve and enhance biological diversity within the UK. In 1995, Biodiversity: The UK Steering Group Report was published, including action plans for 38 key habitats and 402 of our most threatened species.

Key recommendations 

Key recommendations of the report included the need to:

• produce national habitat and species action plans;
• establish a network of local record centres
• produce local biodiversity action plans; and
• to raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity conservation

In 1998, Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust prepared a Local Biodiversity Action Plan entitled A 50 year vision for the wildlife and natural habitats of Hertfordshire on behalf of the Hertfordshire Environmental Forum (HEF). Over 50 organisations were consulted on the plan and many contributions were received. The plan was adopted through a formal signing ceremony in April 1999.