Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a policy approach in the UK that aims to achieve an overall increase in biodiversity through development projects.
Biodiversity Net Gain is a policy which requires that development projects result in a net positive impact on biodiversity, generally through habitat creation or enhancement measures that compensate for any losses caused by the development.
The primary purpose of BNG is to ensure that development projects contribute to the overall conservation and enhancement of biodiversity and promote sustainable development that considers the value of ecosystems and natural resources.
BNG is usually measured in terms of "biodiversity units," calculated using the UK's Defra biodiversity metric. This metric considers habitat type, condition, and the habitat area the development affects.
In the UK, planning authorities typically require a minimum of 10% net gain in biodiversity for new development projects. Note some LPAs seek more significant contributions and require a 20% net gain in biodiversity. This can be achieved through onsite habitat creation, enhancement, or offsite compensation measures.
Developers can achieve BNG through onsite measures (such as habitat creation, enhancement, or restoration) and offsite measures (such as investing in local biodiversity offset projects or habitat banks). This may involve working with ecologists, landscape architects, and other specialists to design and implement suitable measures.
Local planning authorities are crucial in ensuring that BNG is delivered through the planning and development process. They are responsible for setting local policies and guidelines, assessing BNG proposals, and monitoring compliance with BNG requirements.
BNG contributes to the UK's biodiversity targets by ensuring that development projects have a net positive impact on biodiversity, helping to reverse habitat loss and fragmentation, and supporting the long-term conservation of ecosystems and species.
BNG can benefit developers by streamlining the planning process, improving public perception of projects, and enhancing the long-term value of developments. For communities, BNG can result in improved access to green spaces, enhanced ecosystem services (such as air and water quality), and increased resilience to climate change impacts.
Some criticisms of BNG include concerns about the potential for developers to prioritise offsite compensation over onsite habitat creation, the risk of "biodiversity offsetting" leading to a net loss of biodiversity in some cases, and the need for robust monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with BNG requirements.
As the UK continues developing policies and frameworks to address biodiversity loss and climate change, BNG will likely remain an essential part of the planning and development process. The ongoing refinement of guidelines, metrics, and best practices will be crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of BNG in achieving its goals.
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