Created by the United Nations, 3 March is dedicated to observing World Wildlife Day 'to celebrate the many beautiful and varied forms of wild fauna and flora and to raise awareness of the multitude of benefits that conservation provides to people'.
This year’s theme is ‘the future of wildlife is in our hands’. Biodiversity is imperative to communities and to the planet. It’s important that we preserve habitats associated with the projects that we work on to maintain overall diversity in the world. Moreover, several endangered or threatened species are protected by law, and it is illegal to take them or their habitat without the proper regulatory agency review and permits.
Amec Foster Wheeler is working on many projects to help protect wildlife and natural resources. One project site in California is home to numerous federal and state-listed species, including the San Joaquin kit fox, the giant kangaroo rat, the San Joaquin antelope squirrel and the California tiger salamander.
Our team, composed of biologists, archeologists, environmental monitors and compliance specialists, is conducting pre-construction surveys and wildlife relocation efforts for all sensitive species as well as radio-collaring and monitoring of the San Joaquin kit fox. The construction team is overseeing construction activities and assisting crews in compliance with project conditions designed to protect biological, archeological and water resources. The project is an excellent example of collaboration across different groups within the company.
When thinking about the future of wildlife, it’s important to remember that everything is connected – be mindful of your own actions and how they may affect sensitive species and wildlife habitats. You can help raise awareness by talking to friends and family about wildlife and sensitive species. If you have children, teach them about birds and animals. A love of nature can be ingrained in children from an early age, ensuring the next generation can also celebrate World Wildlife Day.