The Local Government Association (LGA) has produced a Position Statement on Biodiversity (2001) which outlines the important role local authorities have.

Local Authorities, in carrying out their functions, can incorporate action that benefits biodiversity into most, if not all areas of service delivery. At the same time they should ensure that otherwise adverse impacts that could arise from some of their activities are eliminated or reduced to a minimum. This requires the integration of biodiversity conservation objectives into all policy formulation, decision making, and in the actual delivery of all services. This is key to achieving sustainable development.

The conservation and enhancement of biodiversity must continue to be a central objective for all local government. We rely on biodiversity for a continuing vibrant living landscape. Very often the natural character of an area is it's most valuable asset, providing the basis for many major economic activities, such as tourism, that are a direct benefit to local people. Biodiversity can make an area attractive to visitors and of course to the people living and working there. It is vital to the quality of life.

Local authorities, as democratic bodies, are uniquely placed to maintain that quality of life because they alone have the capacity to resolve conflicting interests and to deliver solutions to complex problems and cross-cutting issues associated with sustainability.

Local Authorities also provide local democratic accountability for a wide range of public services and provide a community leadership role. The majority of these can make a contribution to local biodiversity objectives and targets. Of course some services are able to make a very much greater contribution than others; for example planning services can secure considerable biodiversity measures from new developments when determining planning applications.