Biodiversity Net Gain for Land Managers
With the launch of mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), a new market of opportunities is opening for land managers. However, understanding the steps to participate in this ecosystem market is crucial. In this article, we explore the insightful flowcharts provided by Katie Gowers, BNG’s metric policy lead at Defra, designed to guide land managers through the process and consider various sale options.
Understanding the Sale Process
Legal Right to Sell
Ensure you have the legal right to sell biodiversity units. Ownership or authorised management of the land is a prerequisite. Tenants can sell units with the main landowners’ agreement, and landowners need consent from affected tenants for BNG activities.
Baseline Survey and Habitat Planning
Conduct a baseline survey to identify existing habitats and their conditions. Plan which habitats to create or enhance, considering local landscape dynamics and Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS).
Legally Securing the Land
Commit to creating and managing habitats for at least 30 years through a legal agreement. This can be a planning obligation (section 106 Agreement) or a Conservation Covenant agreement with a Responsible Body.
Registering the Land
Once legally secured, register the land on the Biodiversity Gain Site Register, providing details of planned habitat enhancements. A registration fee apply. The register will become available when BNG is mandatory.
Selling Biodiversity Units
Agree to sell units to developers, covering the costs of habitat creation, monitoring, and maintenance for a minimum of 30 years.
Registering Units and Linking to Development
Record the sale on the register, specifying which development the biodiversity gains are allocated to. Local Planning Authorities verify these allocations before approving Biodiversity Gain Plans.
Habitat Creating, Enhancement and Management
Begin habitat work, following the agreed plan. Manage and monitor the habitats for at least 30 years in line with the legal agreement.
As the BNG landscape evolves, these steps provide a comprehensive guide for land managers and serve as an example of the potential for positive environmental impact through conscious land management. For more information about BNG, contact us today, we’d love to talk to you!
