The Conservation Department on Ascension was established in 2001 when a Conservation Officer was appointed as part of the Seabird Restoration Project, which was led by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) following facilitation by UKOTCF and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). An Environment Charter was signed in the same year between Ascension Island Government and the Government of the United Kingdom. The Charter outlines commitments that both governments have agreed to with the overall aim of conserving Ascension’s environment. The Conservation Department has the role of implementing these commitments so as to conserve the natural heritage of the Island. The Environment Charter for Ascension Island can be viewed here or here.