Unlocking the Future: Biodiversity Recap for 2025
2024 has seen a seismic shift in how biodiversity is viewed at a planning level. With increasing pressures on our ecosystems and heightened awareness of its importance, this year, the UK government implemented significant legislation requiring a Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirement on most new developments. For landowners, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
What is Biodiversity Net Gain?
Biodiversity Net Gain is an approach to development that ensures any impact on the natural environment is offset by a measurable improvement in biodiversity. This means that every development project should have a positive outcome for local wildlife and ecosystems. The principle is straightforward: if you build or alter land, you must leave it in a better state for nature than you found it.
Current Legislation and Upcoming Changes
The UK government has laid the groundwork for BNG for several years through guidance and legislation, including the Environment Act 2021. Although many local authorities had begun to adopt BNG principles through planning conditions, the legal requirement for a 10% gain only became mandatory earlier this year for most development projects.
The government intends to expand BNG to nationally significant Infrastructure Projects by November 2025. Estimates indicate that the UK has lost over 90% of its wildflower meadows and 50% of its biodiversity since the 1970s, so the urgency for action is palpable.
The Business Case for Biodiversity Net Gain
For landowners, embracing BNG isn't just about compliance; it represents a strategic business opportunity.
1. Enhancing Property Value: Biodiverse properties tend to attract higher values. A Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) report indicates that green spaces can increase property values by up to 20%.
2. Access to Funding and Incentives: With government incentivisation on the rise, landowners could benefit from various funding streams to promote environmental sustainability. The UK government has allocated £640 million for nature recovery projects through the Nature for Climate Fund.
3. Building a Sustainable Brand: As consumers become more environmentally conscious, adopting BNG practices can enhance your brand's sustainability profile. Companies with robust sustainability practices report increased customer loyalty, with 66% of global consumers willing to pay more for sustainable brands.
Taking Action: How We Can Help
Maydencroft specialises in helping landowners navigate the complexities of BNG. Our services include:
Baseline Assessments: We conduct comprehensive assessments to determine the current state of biodiversity on your land and identify potential areas for improvement.
Habitat Management & Monitoring Plans: We develop tailored management plans that align with your business goals while ensuring compliance with Natural England requirements.
Implementation and Management: We can deliver all required capital works to implement BNG schemes and adopt project management and ongoing stewardship.
Monitoring and Reporting: Our team provides ongoing monitoring services to track the effectiveness of BNG schemes, produce compliance reports for the authorising body, and ensure targets are being met.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Biodiversity
The UK government aims to protect and enhance biodiversity by committing to the 25-Year Environment Plan. As legislation becomes more stringent, we anticipate a surge in demand for BNG services by 2025. The global biodiversity crisis has reached critical levels, and the UK is leading in addressing these challenges.
According to the World Economic Forum, the global biodiversity market could reach $140 trillion by 2030, presenting a lucrative opportunity for early adopters.
Conclusion
As a landowner, your choices today will impact your property and the planet. By proactively embracing BNG, you ensure compliance with forthcoming laws and position yourself as a leader in sustainable land management.
Don’t wait for the regulations to catch up to your practices. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your biodiversity goals.
Get in Touch
Book an informal chat with our team to learn more about our services. Together, we can work towards creating and maintaining thriving ecosystems that benefit both wildlife and people. Let us help you make a positive impact on biodiversity through effective aftercare and maintenance practices.
Contact details:
Telephone: 0800 157 7707
Email: info@maydencroft.co.uk
(c) Words Cat Quigley