The construction sector has become a rising player in global efforts to become “Nature Positive” according to UK-based biodiversity consultancy, Biodiversify. Recent reports show that the built environment sector is responsible for up to 30 percent of global biodiversity loss. However, some leading construction businesses have made significant progress in
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is becoming a cornerstone in the building design and construction industry. As sustainability takes precedence, developers are increasingly focusing on how even small-scale projects can significantly contribute to biodiversity. Understanding and leveraging small site metrics is vital for achieving effective BNG compliance. The concept of Biodiversity
In line with its commitment to advancing sustainability practices, leading consultancy Tunley Environmental has released its latest guide focused on understanding Supply Chain Biodiversity Footprint (SCBF). This new resource provides actionable insights for businesses to assess and manage the biodiversity impacts across their supply chains, an increasingly important area for
Five-acre elevated walkway to act as a green gateway between the University of Salford’s campus and Crescent innovation zone Construction of Salford Rise – a transformative element of the wider £2.5bn, 252-acre Crescent Salford masterplan – has begun. Delivered by ECF – a joint partnership between Legal & General, Homes
Environment Bank has recently announced that it is working in collaboration with Barclays to support greater visibility and adoption of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) among housebuilders and England-based farmers. Environment Bank offers Biodiversity Units to developers to enable them to fulfil their BNG obligations. It works with farmers and landowners
By Tara Garraty, Biodiversity Specialist and Sustainability Scientist – Tunley Environmental As more buildings and developments continue to sprout across the UK, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) has become a crucial part of the government’s strategy for environmental sustainability. BNG is a framework that ensures that any new development contributes positively
A TRIO of new starters has joined leading carbon and biodiversity offsetting solutions provider CSX. The appointments expand the firm’s capacity, helping deliver strategic growth in its role as providers of biodiversity net gain (BNG) and carbon offset units. The company uses earth observation technologies and data analysis systems to collect
The National Audit Office has stated new Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements have been launched without all the necessary elements for successful implementation. In February, as BNG laws came into effect, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) noted that 81% of planners in the public sector needed further ‘guidance, advice,
Natural habitats created by new biodiversity laws could absorb up to 650,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, the equivalent of nearly 200,000 round trip flights from London to New York, according to new research from biodiversity tech start-up Joe’s Blooms. Based on the Government’s Net Gain Impact Assessment which shows
As the government’s biodiversity net gain (BNG) requirement for developers becomes mandatory, national property consultancy Carter Jonas has announced the significant sale of over 200 units in Cambridgeshire. Legislation comes into force across England this week ruling that planning applications for all major developments must include provision for BNG of
The construction sector has become a rising player in global efforts to become “Nature Positive” according to UK-based biodiversity consultancy, Biodiversify. Recent reports show that the built environment sector is responsible for up to 30 percent of global biodiversity loss. However, some leading construction businesses have made significant progress in mitigating the impact of their operations on nature. For example, building material company Holcim became one of three companies globally to publicly adopt the science-based targets for nature in October 2024, showcasing that ambitious and credible action for nature is achievable within the building materials sector. BAM, a signatory of the Nature Positive Business Pledge and an early member of the Supply Chain Sustainability School, has also made significant strides in integrating biodiversity considerations across its entire supply chain. Biodiversify reported a marked increase in construction companies seeking expert advice to embed Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) into their projects, particularly during the development of offices, depots, and manufacturing facilities. The boutique consultancy has praised the industry for starting to scrutinise its supply chain, tracing the origins of raw materials such as aggregates and timber, and leveraging certification standards to make informed sourcing decisions that support biodiversity. This emerging focus is aided by the recent work of the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) and Supply Chain Sustainability School to promote the business imperatives of sustainable procurement. Biodiversify is currently undertaking groundbreaking work with the UKGBC to address the embodied ecological impacts that are caused by the resource extraction and manufacturing process, such as the production and transportation of raw materials and the disposal of unused materials. This work builds on the insightful 2023 report published by Expedition Engineering on ‘The Embodied Biodiversity Impacts of Construction Materials’. Voluntary frameworks, such as the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) and the Science-Based Targets Network (SBTN), have also played a pivotal role in encouraging the construction sector to assess its relationship with nature, aided by legislative drivers including the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). Daniel Oldham, Principal Consultant at Biodiversify, said: “The construction sector has made impressive progress in addressing its impact on nature, demonstrating its capacity for meaningful change. “Voluntary nature frameworks have played a key role in helping the industry adopt robust methodologies for assessing impacts and dependencies on nature, enabling more informed and effective strategies. Many organisations are now wanting to align with science-based targets for nature, inspired by early adopters.” “Legislation like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the upcoming European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) are providing a strong foundation. However, the construction industry can make an even greater impact by fully embracing science-based frameworks and integrating biodiversity considerations across its entire value chain.” Biodiversify predicts that the momentum within the construction sector will continue to grow in 2025, spurred by legislative requirements and an expanding awareness of biodiversity’s critical role in business resilience. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is becoming a cornerstone in the building design and construction industry. As sustainability takes precedence, developers are increasingly focusing on how even small-scale projects can significantly contribute to biodiversity. Understanding and leveraging small site metrics is vital for achieving effective BNG compliance. The concept of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) has emerged as an essential framework in promoting sustainable development within the construction sector. This approach ensures that new developments leave biodiversity in a better state than before. As the focus on environmental sustainability heightens, industry professionals must navigate the complexities of BNG compliance, particularly when dealing with small site metrics. These metrics present unique challenges and opportunities, requiring a keen understanding of their role in enhancing biodiversity on smaller scales. The integration of a BNG calculator in project planning facilitates accurate assessment and implementation of these metrics, ensuring compliance and ecological enhancement. Comprehending small site metrics Small site metrics play a pivotal role in the context of BNG, serving as benchmarks to gauge the ecological value of a project. They ensure that even minor developments contribute positively to local ecosystems. By measuring elements such as habitat quality and connectivity, these metrics help project planners make informed decisions that align with BNG goals. The integration of a BNG calculator in project planning facilitates accurate assessment and implementation of these metrics, ensuring compliance and ecological enhancement. These metrics are crucial because they hold all projects accountable, regardless of size, to maintain or improve the ecological balance. In this way, developers can contribute to broader biodiversity objectives by recognising the cumulative impact of small-scale developments. Maintaining stringent small-site metrics can lead to significant long-term benefits for local wildlife and plant life. When implementing small site metrics, it’s essential to consider both quantitative and qualitative aspects of biodiversity assessment. This includes evaluating factors such as species richness, habitat distinctiveness and ecological connectivity. Understanding these components helps developers create more targeted and effective biodiversity enhancement strategies. The metric system typically assigns numerical values to different habitat types, considering their condition and strategic significance within the local ecological network. The role of BNG calculators BNG calculators are indispensable tools for developers aiming to achieve BNG compliance effectively. These digital solutions provide detailed assessments and projections that guide planners through the intricate process of metric evaluation and improvement plans. With these calculators, you can create comprehensive biodiversity metric sheets that map out necessary steps for enhancing local habitats while meeting legal requirements. The ease of using digital tools like BNG calculators cannot be overstated. They simplify complex calculations and offer real-time data analysis, enabling efficient resource allocation and strategic planning. These tools have revolutionised project management by providing clear pathways to achieving net gain outcomes. Challenges in implementing small site metrics Despite their importance, implementing small site metrics poses several challenges. Limited space and resources often constrain how much can be done within a given project area. Additionally, there may be gaps in knowledge or expertise among project teams regarding best practices for incorporating these metrics into design plans. One strategy to overcome these challenges involves leveraging digital tools alongside expert guidance. Engaging with ecologists or environmental consultants can provide valuable insights into optimising space usage for biodiversity benefits. Moreover, integrating innovative technologies into your workflow can streamline processes and enhance accuracy in metric calculations. Examples of small site metrics in use Several compelling examples showcase the effective application of small site metrics to achieve Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in construction projects. For instance, residential development in a compact urban area can utilise these metrics to integrate living walls, bird boxes and pollinator-friendly plants, resulting in measurable increases in local biodiversity. Similarly, a small-scale commercial site in a suburban setting can apply small site metrics to enhance on-site green infrastructure, including the creation of a native wildflower meadow and rain gardens to support wildlife and improve water management. Another example is the redevelopment of a brownfield site where metrics guide the installation of green roofs and restoration of nearby hedgerows, creating ecological corridors that benefit both flora and fauna. These examples demonstrate that even on constrained plots, small site metrics can enable tailored, impactful actions that contribute to broader biodiversity goals while meeting regulatory requirements and enhancing community value.
In line with its commitment to advancing sustainability practices, leading consultancy Tunley Environmental has released its latest guide focused on understanding Supply Chain Biodiversity Footprint (SCBF). This new resource provides actionable insights for businesses to assess and manage the biodiversity impacts across their supply chains, an increasingly important area for companies looking to meet sustainability targets and address their environmental responsibilities. SCBF is a metric used to measure the effects of a company’s operations on biodiversity through its entire supply chain. It helps businesses identify the extent of their environmental impact, particularly regarding species, habitats and ecosystems that are critical for maintaining biodiversity. This guide complements Tunley’s existing SCBF assessment and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) services. Key features of the guide include practical advice on integrating biodiversity performance into procurement and supply chain strategies. It also emphasises the importance of adopting industry standards and tools to ensure accurate assessments of biodiversity risks, including using metrics and reporting systems that align with global sustainability frameworks. By following the guide, companies can align their biodiversity strategies with their supply chain operation. The Supply Chain Biodiversity Footprint Guide is now available for download on the Tunley Environmental website. This resource is invaluable for sustainability managers, procurement leaders and corporate responsibility teams seeking to navigate the complexities of biodiversity management in their supply chains. For more information about the SCBF Guide and to access the guide, please visit Tunley Environmental Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Five-acre elevated walkway to act as a green gateway between the University of Salford’s campus and Crescent innovation zone Construction of Salford Rise – a transformative element of the wider £2.5bn, 252-acre Crescent Salford masterplan – has begun. Delivered by ECF – a joint partnership between Legal & General, Homes England and Muse on behalf of Salford City Council – the infrastructure and public realm project will remove physical barriers between the communities to the north of the Crescent area, replacing them with walking and cycling routes focused on accessibility and active travel, significantly improving connectivity between these communities and Crescent Salford. In addition, there will be large areas of new, high-quality green spaces, trees, planting and public squares for pop-up events and festivals. At the heart of the ambitious regeneration of Salford Crescent, is a near five-acre elevated walkway spanning Frederick Road which will enhance connectivity and act as a key gateway between the University of Salford’s campus and the Crescent innovation zone. Eric Wright Civil Engineering has been appointed as the main contractor to deliver the walkway designed by MAKE, Planit and Cundall. It stands at 11 metres wide and 220 metres long and will be a green and safe haven for pedestrians and cyclists, encouraging active travel and facilitating improved collaboration across the development. The project is partially funded by £13.17m from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund. Preparatory and ground works will be carried out for the remainder of 2024, while work on the bridge structure is expected to begin in early 2025 and complete in summer 2026. Salford Rise forms a key part of the Crescent masterplan which will deliver more than 3,000 homes, 1m sq ft of offices, retail and leisure, a multi-model transport hub and vast areas of green space. Commencement of work on the project follows the approval of plans by Salford City Council to bring forward Crescent Innovation, another pivotal element of the Crescent Salford masterplan. Creating a high-quality innovation ecosystem around the University of Salford, Crescent Innovation will build on existing world-class research and development capabilities; help drive further economic growth in the city and wider region; and facilitate enhanced links between academia, research, and business. Salford Rise will physically connect economic assets across the innovation zone to unlock significant development opportunities and enable collaboration between academia and industry. Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett, said: “I am delighted that this important project is now moving into the delivery phase. Salford Rise will better connect our communities to the Crescent and University campus and provide transformational change across Crescent Innovation, helping to unlock world-class innovation-led research and development opportunities that Salford residents and businesses can benefit from.” Vice-Chancellor at the University of Salford, Professor Nic Beech, commented: “Salford Rise is a great example of innovative regeneration work as part of the wider Crescent masterplan to benefit our Salford community, connecting people and fostering collaboration between businesses. This work will develop and enhance our local environment and provide vital sustainable travel options for students, colleagues, and visitors accessing our University campus and the surrounding areas.” Max King, Project Director (North West) at ECF, said: “Starting on site at Salford Rise and seeing the first spade in the ground marks a landmark staging post as we begin to bring the vision for Crescent Salford to life. This project is a pivotal part of the wider masterplan, and particularly the innovation zone, unlocking opportunities and fostering collaboration to enable the people that live, work and study in Salford to thrive.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Environment Bank has recently announced that it is working in collaboration with Barclays to support greater visibility and adoption of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) among housebuilders and England-based farmers. Environment Bank offers Biodiversity Units to developers to enable them to fulfil their BNG obligations. It works with farmers and landowners to generate these units by building ‘habitat banks’, supporting farmers to increase biodiversity, unlock a diversified revenue stream and build business resilience for their farms. BNG is an initiative that aims to make sure that property development in England has a measurably positive impact on biodiversity. To comply with the Environment Act 2021, developers in England must deliver a 10% net uplift in biodiversity relating to the site to be granted planning permission. Barclays’ developer clients will be able to purchase off-site Biodiversity Units from Environment Bank from a network of habitat banks around the country. As part of the collaboration, Environment Bank and Barclays are also highlighting opportunities for farmers and landowners to explore the BNG market as an avenue of accessing Nature markets, through Environment Bank’s model where it takes a 30-year lease on areas of land to deliver the biodiversity gains. Commenting on the collaboration, Catherine Spitzer, CEO of Environment Bank, said: “We are delighted to be working with Barclays and look forward to helping both its developer and agricultural clients to navigate the BNG market.” “I hope that working closely with Barclays’ clients in this way will make a significant contribution to nature restoration in England.” Adam White, Head of Agriculture, Barclays UK said: “Not only does BNG support farmers and landowners to explore possible new revenue streams, but it also supports biodiversity uplift across the England and is a route for developers to comply with this new regulation. “This collaboration with Environment Bank helps ensure our customers are getting support to understand what is right for their business.” Environment Bank has already established a network of 28 Habitat Banks over almost 2,000 acres across England – with more than 20 additional sites already in development. It has a team of 85 experts working across ecology, land management, planning, and legal services. Its clients comprise SME and major housebuilders alongside significant commercial, utility, energy, and infrastructure developers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
By Tara Garraty, Biodiversity Specialist and Sustainability Scientist – Tunley Environmental As more buildings and developments continue to sprout across the UK, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) has become a crucial part of the government’s strategy for environmental sustainability. BNG is a framework that ensures that any new development contributes positively to biodiversity. The goal is to leave the environment in a better state post-development than it was before. Developers are required to assess the biodiversity value of a site before and after development, with a target of achieving a minimum 10% net gain in biodiversity. Traditionally applied to larger projects, from April 2024 BNG now extends to smaller sites as well, following an update from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra). The Small Sites Update: What’s New? Historically, BNG was a requirement primarily for larger developments. However, with the new regulation, small developments—defined as those under a hectare in size or involving fewer than nine dwellings—are now also subject to BNG rules. This expansion recognizes that cumulative impacts from smaller projects can significantly affect local biodiversity. To aid in the assessment of these smaller projects, Defra introduced the Small Sites Metric (SSM) calculation tool, a simplified tool adapted from the existing statutory biodiversity metric calculation tool, to help measure the biodiversity value of smaller sites, making it easier for developers to meet the BNG requirements. Why BNG Matters for Small Developments In the word of Tunley Environmental’s Biodiversity Specialist Tara Garraty “Implementing biodiversity net gain on small sites allows one to maximise ecological benefits across all scales, ensuring that every development, regardless of size, contributes to the restoration and enhancement of local biodiversity. This approach fosters a more resilient and sustainable environment for future generations.” The Small Sites Metric To assess and quantify the biodiversity impact of small developments, the UK government introduced the Small Sites Metric. This tool provides a simplified method for calculating the biodiversity value of a site, making it easier for developers of small projects to meet the BNG requirements. The metric considers factors such as habitat quality and area, guiding developers on how to achieve the mandatory 10% net gain in biodiversity. Steps to Implementing BNG in Small Developments Baseline Assessment: Start by evaluating the existing biodiversity of the site using the Small Sites Metric. This involves identifying and quantifying the types and quality of habitats present. Design and Plan: Develop a plan that outlines how the project will achieve at least a 10% net gain in biodiversity. This could include enhancing existing habitats, creating new ones or improving habitat connectivity. Implementation: Carry out the planned biodiversity enhancements during the construction phase and ensure ongoing management to maintain the biodiversity gains. Monitoring and Reporting: Regularly monitor the outcomes and report on the biodiversity improvements to relevant authorities. Who Should Comply with New BNG Regulations? Although, updates to BNG regulations applies to anyone involved in the construction and sustainability industry, it is particularly vital for developers, landscape architect or planner working on small development projects. Developers of Major Developments: Developers undertaking major projects, that typically involve large-scale construction activities, such as residential complexes, commercial buildings or industrial facilities, are required to incorporate BNG principles into their project planning and execution. This might include measures like creating green spaces, enhancing habitats or offsetting biodiversity losses through conservation projects elsewhere. Developers of Small Sites (Effective from 2 April 2024): This extension recognizes that even small developments can significantly impact local biodiversity. Developers of Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (Effective from Late November 2025): From late November 2025, developers involved in nationally significant infrastructure projects, such as highways, railways and energy installations, will also need to comply with BNG regulations. These projects often have large footprints and can impact vast areas, making it essential to implement strategies that mitigate biodiversity losses. Land Managers Wanting to Sell in the BNG Market: BNG regulations also open up opportunities for land managers and owners to participate in the biodiversity market. By enhancing or restoring habitats on their land, they can generate biodiversity units that can be sold to developers needing to offset their biodiversity impacts. Local Planning Authorities (LPAs): Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) play a critical role in enforcing BNG regulations. They are responsible for reviewing and approving development proposals, ensuring that BNG assessments are properly conducted and that plans meet the required standards. Implications and Future Updates The inclusion of small sites under the BNG umbrella signifies a broader push towards comprehensive biodiversity protection. Developers, planners and landowners must now integrate biodiversity considerations into all scales of development projects to align with legal requirements and support global environmental and sustainability goals. Future Updates and Considerations: Continued Evolution of Metrics: As the understanding of biodiversity and ecosystem services deepens, the metrics and tools used to assess biodiversity impacts will likely keep evolving. This could include more nuanced metrics that consider ecological connectivity and specific landscape. Increased Regulatory Scrutiny: As enforcement mechanisms strengthen, developers may face more rigorous scrutiny to ensure compliance with BNG targets. Wider Adoption of BNG Principles: Beyond statutory requirements, there’s an increasing trend towards voluntary adoption of BNG principles by businesses and organisations committed to sustainability. Tara emphasises the strategic importance of integrating biodiversity into future planning efforts, stating, “As BNG becomes integral to planning, future considerations for developers will increasingly focus on innovative design and the integration of green infrastructure even on small sites. By prioritising nature-inclusive solutions, developers can contribute to larger ecological networks, enhancing habitat connectivity and resilience in the face of climate change. This forward-thinking approach will be crucial in meeting both environmental goals and regulatory requirements in the years ahead.” The Bottom Line The extension of BNG requirements to small sites marks a significant step in the UK’s biodiversity conservation efforts. Traditional metrics and frameworks often overlook these sites, despite their collective impact on local biodiversity. For developers and stakeholders, understanding and implementing these requirements is crucial for legal compliance and contributing to broader environmental goals. As the regulatory landscape continues
A TRIO of new starters has joined leading carbon and biodiversity offsetting solutions provider CSX. The appointments expand the firm’s capacity, helping deliver strategic growth in its role as providers of biodiversity net gain (BNG) and carbon offset units. The company uses earth observation technologies and data analysis systems to collect and accurately analyse carbon storage and biodiversity data. This process has quickly become crucial for land developers and owners with the government’s introduction of BNG in February 2024. This new approach requires any new development to have a positive impact, or ‘net gain’, on the land biodiversity of at least ten per cent. This ensures that wildlife habitats are left in a measurably better state than they were before. Joining CSX’s expert team as BNG project officers are Kennedy Young and Heather Scollick, while Steven Crosby has been appointed a business development executive at the company’s North Yorkshire office. Kennedy and Heather are tasked with helping landowners develop their BNG projects, overseeing them from start to finish as well as advising, finalising and communicating plans with local authorities. Steven will be responsible for supporting developers, planning consultants and stakeholders in the construction sector to navigate the successful delivery of BNG on their projects. He will also secure any shortfall in units from the land managers who CSX has supported in the creation of off-site units for sale. Previously Kennedy worked at ecology and design practice FPCR as a seasonal assistant ecologist and has studied animal science and welfare. Kennedy said: “CSX has an important mission which I am more than happy to be part of. BNG is a significant change for the sector and people are understandably wary about what is now expected of developments. It’s my job to make sure that the benefits of BNG are known, but also the processes are as simple and accessible as possible. Heather said: “CSX is leading in this field, so it’s an honour to be part of the team. It’s not just about progressing these important BNG projects, but also progressing the wider knowledge of the environment, species identification, trees and general habitats. It’s important that we utilise all resources at our disposal, especially technology, to tackle this problem head on.” Steven, tasked with making sure key stakeholders are engaging in the BNG process and helping to relieve the pressure on them, said: “I’m looking forward to getting stuck into the role. Being able to talk to these different groups of people and assist them in something this significant is rewarding. It’s about having clarifying conversations about BNG – there’s a lot of information and it can be intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be.” Andy Howard, CSX’s co-founder and chief executive officer, said: “It’s a pleasure having Kennedy, Heather and Steven bolster our team across these two key departments. “At CSX we are focused on strategic growth and the awareness of what we can do and how we can help both landowners and developers. “We want to make sure we are at the forefront of the discussions around biodiversity net gain in the sector and we do that by having a dedicated team from varied backgrounds with a similar passion for the environment. I look forward to seeing the great work they accomplish with our projects and clients.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The National Audit Office has stated new Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements have been launched without all the necessary elements for successful implementation. In February, as BNG laws came into effect, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) noted that 81% of planners in the public sector needed further ‘guidance, advice, and support’, 68% of all planners needed more staff and skills, and 61% require more case studies of best practice, according to a survey of RTPI members. The RTPI is closely monitoring BNG’s impacts on the planning system. The Institute is encouraging members to share their experiences by filling out its BNG survey and sharing case studies of best practice. Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the RTPI, said: “Our members in public and private sectors said that they felt unprepared for Biodiversity Net Gain in the lead up to its implementation. We worked to voice these concerns to the government, calling for clear guidance on BNG and sufficient resources to local planning authorities operating this new system. “We would like to see the implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain succeed and are pleased that our engagement on this subject helped secure further funding for planning services to implement BNG. “However, the conclusions outlined by the NAO today reflect what our members have been consistently telling us for some time: that planning services have not been given sufficient guidance, advice, and support, and lack the staff and skills to avoid delays to an already stretched planning system. We strongly support the principles of BNG, but any new burdens to the planning system need to be adequately supported. “We agree with the recommendations made by the NAO. To facilitate local delivery, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs must ensure local authorities have sufficient funding, monitor the biodiversity units market, identify regional impacts, and work with planners and ecologists to coordinate best practice among local authorities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Natural habitats created by new biodiversity laws could absorb up to 650,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, the equivalent of nearly 200,000 round trip flights from London to New York, according to new research from biodiversity tech start-up Joe’s Blooms. Based on the Government’s Net Gain Impact Assessment which shows that new regulations could see England benefit from over 15,000 hectares of biodiversity each year, the research analysed the carbon storage potential of the natural habitats that this increase could create. Looking at the distribution of different habitats across the UK, the research found that the carbon storage potential of woodland, heath, grasslands, and wetlands equates to emissions released from 4.6 billion kilometres of driving an average car. The increase in habitats that absorb carbon dioxide is down to the new Biodiversity Net Gain law (BNG) – a first-of-its-kind planning policy that requires developers to invest in measures that increase the amount of plants and wildlife in the local area by 10%. As well as the carbon absorption potential, increasing woodlands, heath, grasslands, and wetlands through the new BNG policy will protect England’s native plant and animal species – with recent data from the Woodland Trust finding that one-third of all woodland species are diminishing. The analysis comes as recent data from the European Earth Observation Agency shows global annual temperatures have for the first time breached the critical benchmark of 1.5C above pre-industrial levels set by the United Nations, with January 2024 being the hottest start to a year on record. Scientists around the world have long argued nature restoration is central to tackling the climate crisis. Research shows that over the past 10 years, ecosystems and the biodiversity they contain have absorbed 54% of human-made carbon emissions. Natural habitats also provide important solutions to more extreme weather patterns such as increased rainfall, with analysis showing that biodiverse land decreases flood exposure by up to 70%. With the policy mandatory for small developments as of April 2, this research demonstrates that BNG will play a key role in boosting natural habitats across England and supporting the UK’s efforts to fight global warming. Robin McArthur, Chair of the Joe’s Blooms Advisory Board, said: “This analysis adds to mounting evidence that nature recovery fuelled by BNG, whether it’s restoring wildlife-rich habitats or creating green corridors to bridge together fragmented habitats, will play a central role in boosting the UK’s resilience to climate change. Developers and local authorities have an opportunity to build the homes we so desperately need whilst also making a nature-positive contribution to the climate crisis.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As the government’s biodiversity net gain (BNG) requirement for developers becomes mandatory, national property consultancy Carter Jonas has announced the significant sale of over 200 units in Cambridgeshire. Legislation comes into force across England this week ruling that planning applications for all major developments must include provision for BNG of at least 10% so habitats are left in a better state than they were pre-development. Previously, developers needed to ensure any damage done to biodiversity was offset, but new regulations mean they must also provide an additional 10% gain. If applicants cannot provide this extra 10% on site, they will need to purchase BNG units off site, which is where the opportunity exists for landowners. In what is one of the first large-scale public sales of its kind, Carter Jonas is acting for Ground Control’s Evergreen Fund to market The Devana Centre for Environmental Recovery in West Wickham, Cambridgeshire. Mark Russell, Partner at Carter Jonas, said: “The introduction of mandatory BNG has been a long time coming but will now open opportunities for landowners who are interested in the natural capital markets. “Selling units is a big commitment as the land must stay in the scheme for a minimum of 30 years, so decisions should be made within the context of a long-term strategy for the farm or estate. “In the case of the Devana Centre, there is a clear plan and a strong desire from the Evergreen Fund to deliver nature recovery, so the natural capital route is a really good option.” Ground Control is a UK-based grounds maintenance company and The Devana Centre forms the latest example of its Evergreen Fund’s commitment to building a network for nature recovery through direct action. It is the Evergreen Fund’s second site, adding to its 296-acre Wildfell Centre for Environmental Recovery in Braintree, Essex. Chris Bawtree, Nature Recovery Director for the Evergreen Fund, said: “Devana represents a key part of Natural Cambridgeshire’s ambition to double land managed for nature across the region from 8% – one of the lowest in the country – to 16% which is the national average. “The new location will provide a home for 20-25 native tree species, 15-20 native shrubs, a wide variety of native wildflowers and grasses, creating valuable habitats for a range of other fauna such as pollinators, birds, bats, mammals and reptiles. “The land will also provide corridors for biodiversity to spread by linking directly into the Cambridgeshire Green Infrastructure network via woodland and hedgerows on site and the neighbouring semi-natural ancient woodland Rand’s Wood.” The price range for BNG units from The Devana Centre starts from £22,500. For more details contact Mark Russell at the Carter Jonas Cambridge office on 01223 346600. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
