What is Biodiversity Net Gain and How is it Applied?

Biodiversity Net Gain is an approach to development that aims to leave the natural environment in a measurably better state than it was beforehand. It's a part of the broader concept of environmental net gain, which also includes wider environmental factors such as ecosystem services.

The principle behind biodiversity net gain is that any negative impacts on biodiversity caused by development projects should be balanced by projects that enhance it, leading to a net gain overall. The aim is to ensure that habitats are not just protected but are enhanced and left in a better state for wildlife.

Here's a basic step-by-step explanation of how it's applied:

1. Assess the Baseline: The first step is to assess the biodiversity that is currently present on a development site. This typically involves ecological surveys to record the species that are present and the condition of their habitats.
2. Avoid and Minimise Impact: Developers should then aim to avoid damaging biodiversity where possible, by changing their plans to spare valuable habitats. Where impact cannot be avoided, steps should be taken to minimize it.
3. Restore and Create: Where biodiversity has been lost or damaged, developers should take steps to restore it. This might involve actions like re-planting vegetation, creating new habitats, or reintroducing species.
4. Calculate the Net Gain: After the development is complete and the restoration measures are in place, an assessment should be done to calculate the net gain (or loss) of biodiversity. This is typically expressed as a percentage. In many places, a net gain of 10% is the target.
5. Maintain the Gain: After the net gain has been calculated, measures should be put in place to ensure that it is maintained over the long term. This might involve ongoing habitat management or monitoring of species.

In the UK, the government has committed to mandating biodiversity net gain in the planning system, so that all new developments will need to demonstrate that they will deliver an increase in biodiversity.

It's worth noting that while biodiversity net gain is an important tool for conserving biodiversity, it is not a solution to all conservation challenges. It is most effective when used in combination with other approaches, such as protected areas and landscape-scale conservation initiatives.