Language: English, also available in Swedish
Sweden's biological diversity may seem limited compared with the wealth of species to be found in many more southerly countries. As far as certain groups of organisms are concerned, however, Sweden is at least as species-rich as the tropical rain forests. lt also has a greater diversity of ecosystems and habitats than most other countries. Nevertheless, here as in other parts of the world, the flora and fauna have changed more rapidly over the past century than ever before. Farming, forestry and other human activities have proved unfavourable to numerous species, while enabling others to become more widespread.
Biological Diversity in Sweden presents a broad survey of Sweden's biological diversity today and of the ways in which it has changed. The various factors affecting biodiversity at the present time are examined and compared. A brief account is also given of current efforts to conserve diversity, and of attempts that have been made to assess its economic value.
Commissioned by the Swedish Government, Biological Diversity in Sweden will form a basis for the action programme to be submitted by Sweden underthe Convention on Biological Diversity, adopted in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. Similar country studies have been prepared by many other nations.