Biodiversity Standard
In 2001, we were the first energy company to adopt a Biodiversity Standard outlining our commitment to work with others to maintain ecosystems, respect protected areas and make a positive contribution to the conservation of global flora and fauna.
Our Standard
We recognise that our operations have impacts that if not addressed can result in the loss of biodiversity and cost Shell in time, money and reputation. A failure to protect biodiversity could jeopardise our licence to operate while a strong reputation built on the effective management of biodiversity could be a competitive advantage.
We will:
- Work with others to maintain ecosystems
- Respect the basic concept of protected areas
- Seek partnerships to enable the Group to make a positive contribution towards the conservation of global biodiversity
Shell companies will:
- Conduct environmental assessments, including the potential impacts on biodiversity, prior to all new activities and significant modifications of existing ones
- Bring focused attention to the management of activities in internationally recognised hotspots, including the identification of, and early consultation with, key stakeholders.
Additional commitments
In 2003, we made additional commitments with regard to protected areas, including a commitment not to explore for or develop, oil and gas in natural World Heritage Sites. For more information see 
Shell and protected areas.
In 2005, we also developed a Biodiversity strategy through to 2010 which includes a commitment to have Biodiversity Action Plans developed for operations in IUCN Category I-IV protected areas and all areas of high biodiversity value.
How the standard was developed
Our standard was developed in partnership with leading experts in the conservation field after a workshop in December 1999 with representatives from Conservation International, Earthwatch Europe, Fauna and Flora International, The World Conservation Union (IUCN), Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, the Natural History Museum, the Smithsonian Institution, United Nations Environment Programme's World Conservation Monitoring Centre, the World Resources Institute and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
Related links
Find out how we are Living up to our Standard.
Read how we are 'Closing the gap between our Standard and implementation on the ground'
→ Shell Sustainability Report 2006
Visit the online Shell Sustainability Report 2006 and discover what we say about biodiversity.
