Demystifying Biodiversity Net Gain for businesses
Biodiversity Net Gain is becoming a key part of planning policies worldwide, especially for businesses involved in development and land use.
But what exactly is it, and why should businesses care?
Here we demystify Biodiversity Net Gain, outline its importance, the benefits it brings, and how businesses can implement it.
What is Biodiversity Net Gain?
Biodiversity Net Gain means improving the natural environment beyond its original state after development or land management.
This involves ensuring any loss of biodiversity due to development is outweighed by measures that contribute to an overall gain in biodiversity. In fact, even if no loss occurs through the development process a gain is still required.
Biodiversity Net Gain uses habitats at a proxy. This means instead of directly measuring all aspects on biodiversity, which can be complex, it focuses on creating or restoring habitats that support a variety of species.
It applies to any business carrying out a development that requires planning permission and they must demonstrate at least a 10 percent gain in biodiversity.
There are some exemptions, which include: householder applications, permitted development, and some custom and self-build or projects that impact non-priority habitats of less than 25 metres squared or five metres long.
Why is it important?
As the climate and ecological crises worsen, we urgently need to boost nature recovery for the health of our planet, wildlife, and communities.
Biodiversity net gain provides a way for businesses, and infrastructure, to support nature’s revival.
It helps restore the ecosystems that play a significant role in reducing climate impacts by supporting biodiversity, absorbing carbon, improving water and air quality, and reducing flood risks.
Plus, it can ensure more green spaces are accessible near new developments and beyond.
Why should businesses care?
As it will be a requirement for most developments, it affects any business carrying out a development that requires planning permission.
Related businesses, such as property investors, are also likely to be affected because of its requirements, particularly in respect of planning and design.
Regulation and compliance. Legislation mandates Biodiversity Net Gain for new developments. The Environment Act was passed into UK law in November 2021.
This Act includes a mandatory requirement for a 10% Biodiversity Net Gain for development projects in England, with some exceptions, as of February 2024.
It also amends the existing Town and Country Planning Act (TCPA) and the 2008 Planning Act, introducing mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain requirements.
Staying ahead of these regulations reduces the risk of future legal and financial penalties.
Risk Management. By proactively managing biodiversity, businesses can reduce risks related to environmental degradation, such as supply chain disruptions and increased costs due to resource scarcity.
Sustainable growth. Biodiversity Net Gain encourages sustainable development practices that can lead to long-term benefits, including improved ecosystem services that support business operations.
Corporate responsibility and reputation. Demonstrating commitment to biodiversity can enhance your company's reputation, making it more attractive to customers, investors, and employees who value environmental responsibility.
How can you implement Biodiversity Net Gain?
Use the Mitigation Hierarchy. It’s a set of guidelines as opposed to a legislative framework and can be used to clearly define and establish how to improve the biodiversity value of the project.
The Mitigation Hierarchy comprises:
Preventing harm to biodiversity where possible, reducing impact on biodiversity through thoughtful design and practices
Restoring affected areas to their original state or better.
Compensating for any residual impacts by creating or enhancing biodiversity elsewhere.
Stakeholder engagement. Engage with local communities, conservation and ecology organisations, and other stakeholders to understand their concerns and incorporate their input into your Biodiversity Net Gain plans.
Monitoring and reporting. Continuously monitor biodiversity outcomes to ensure goals are being met. Report progress transparently to stakeholders and regulatory bodies.
Innovation and partnerships. Explore innovative solutions such as green roofs, living walls, and biodiversity-friendly infrastructure.
Partner with conservation and ecology organisations and experts to enhance your Biodiversity Net Gain efforts and ensure you do the right thing at the right time in the right place.
Conclusion
Biodiversity Net Gain is more than just a regulatory requirement. It's an opportunity to contribute positively to the environment while reaping tangible benefits.
By understanding and implementing Biodiversity Net Gain you can ensure compliance and foster a sustainable future that benefits both nature and society.
By adopting Biodiversity Net Gain practices, your business can lead the way in environmental stewardship, setting the standard for others to follow.
Watch our Biodiversity Net Gain video.
Get in-depth guidance by Natural England.
The time for talking is over, today we need to act.