Beyond the boundary: the case for offsetting BNG

Development has been a major contributor to biodiversity loss in the UK, threatening the survival of many plants and animals, and impacting the functioning and resilience of our ecosystems.

Amidst alarming declines in biodiversity and the growing impact of development, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is emerging as a powerful solution that can safeguard biodiversity for years to come. This article considers the different ways developers can successfully mitigate any harm to biodiversity via BNG.

From November 2023, developers must demonstrate an increase in biodiversity levels post-development, to obtain planning consents for most projects, making it a crucial part of the planning process. The Environment Act 2021 mandates that development projects must leave the land in a 'better state for wildlife than before', requiring a minimum 10% increase in biodiversity as part of their development. Some Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) have even stated a desire to target a higher net gain level of 20%.

Assuming a situation where no net loss is not possible, requires developers to either enhance biodiversity onsite OR offset any loss at a different location aiming overall to achieve a net increase in biodiversity across the landscape. Doing so will improve the connectivity of habitats, creating corridors to allow for the movement of wildlife and species dispersal, as well as contributing to the provision of vital ecosystem services, such as pollination, clean air, and water regulation - benefitting both wildlife and human well-being.

Following the mitigation hierarchy (Avoid loss > minimise loss > offset/compensate for loss), developers will need to think more creatively about how they could incorporate BNG within the boundaries of their projects if they are to deliver their net gain onsite. Adding 'bee bricks' and 'hedgehog highways' won't be sufficient, as the Biodiversity Metric takes a habitat-based approach, impacting the potential areas for building within the project.

Another factor to consider will be the management of the gain areas (which must remain in place for the statutory period of at least 30 years) to ensure that these specially created ecological habitats are maintained long after their completion. Developers will need to reconsider their estate management scopes and options when incorporating BNG onsite. However, by offsetting their requirements, they can transfer this legal responsibility to the landowners of the offsite Biodiversity Gain Sites (who have made their land available for this purpose).

Instead of attempting to incorporate their entire BNG requirement onsite, developers can take advantage of either a blended approach or fulfilling all their obligations offsite, achieving meaningful biodiversity outcomes that benefit both wildlife and human wellbeing. While onsite measures remain valuable for enhancing the immediate natural value of the development, offsetting ultimately contributes to the overall improvement of biodiversity on a broader scale and provides a viable option for achieving BNG.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to achieve robust Biodiversity Net Gain offsite. Get in touch with us today and unlock the full potential of your project's environmental impact.