The UK is considering a significant policy shift. From November this year, nationally significant infrastructure projects (NSIPs) are expected to be mandated to deliver a minimum 10 per cent biodiversity net gain (BNG). This initiative, rooted in the Environment Act 2021, aims to counteract the nation’s extensive biodiversity loss and encourage ecological enhancement. The requirement is in addition to the Nature Restoration Fund levy contained in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill that is currently before Parliament.
At first glance, achieving a 10 per cent BNG in large-scale infrastructure projects may appear challenging. However, insights from France, where a ‘no net loss’ biodiversity policy has been in effect since 2016, suggest that such mandates can drive positive change in project design and delivery.
The no-net-loss policy operates on a mitigation hierarchy: avoid biodiversity impacts where possible; minimise them when avoidance isn’t feasible; and compensate for any residual impacts. This approach, encapsulated in the principle of ‘éviter, réduire, compenser’ (avoid, reduce, compensate), has prompted a significant shift in project planning.
Our experience of navigating the no-net-loss biodiversity policy in France has provided valuable insights on integrating ecological considerations into major schemes. With a design-led approach, biodiversity is considered from the project’s inception. By minimising ecological disruption early in the planning process, projects not only reduce the need for compensatory measures but also align more harmoniously with their natural surroundings.
This alignment can minimise additional costs and prevent compromises on project objectives. Furthermore, embedding BNG into a project’s strategic goals ensures biodiversity becomes a fundamental design consideration. For example, in transport infrastructure, this might involve selecting modes or routes that facilitate or optimise the achievement of 10 per cent BNG.
Utilising technology in planning enables stakeholders to make informed decisions on biodiversity restoration, leading to more sustainable and resilient infrastructure. For instance, Egis has developed a tool to assess urban heat islands by analysing factors like solar radiation, material properties and vegetation cover. This enables the identification of areas prone to excessive heat and the evaluation of cooling strategies, such as increasing vegetation or altering surface materials.
Additionally, flood risk is monitored by collecting and visualising data to provide a comprehensive overview of vulnerable areas. This enables stakeholders to make informed decisions to protect vulnerable populations, infrastructures and environments. Such technological interventions support informed decision-making, ensuring that infrastructure projects are both sustainable and resilient.
New model for infrastructure development
Over the past decade, the UK has experienced significant biodiversity loss, retaining less than half of its natural biodiversity due to human activities. This decline poses challenges, especially as climate change intensifies extreme weather events.
The forthcoming BNG requirement for NSIPs presents an opportunity: by embedding biodiversity considerations into the core objectives of projects, developers can create infrastructure that not only serves its primary purpose but also enhances the natural environment.
Early integration of biodiversity goals can lead to streamlined projects with reduced material usage, minimised waste and optimised routes that avoid ecologically sensitive areas. This approach is not only environmentally responsible but also economically advantageous, potentially reducing costs associated with environmental mitigation, while establishing positive community relations.
The extension of the 10 per cent BNG requirement to NSIPs would be a progressive step. To maximise its benefits, it’s essential for both government and industry stakeholders to adopt a strategic approach, making BNG a fundamental aspect of project design from the outset.
The UK has the potential to not only meet but exceed biodiversity targets, creating infrastructure that supports ecological resilience and delivers lasting value to communities. By embracing these principles, the construction industry can lead the way in harmonising development with nature, ensuring that progress and preservation go hand in hand.
