The Environment Bill, set to become law next year, requires all new developments to deliver a minimum uplift of 10% in biodiversity.
With its consultation having just closed on 5 April 2022, the biodiversity net gain (BNG) legislation is set to be pivotal for our planning system, and there is a great opportunity for the property and construction industry to make a step change in its approach to sustainability. But how challenging will it be to meet the new requirements?
The crucial challenge is the requirement that BNGs be guaranteed for a hefty period of 30 years, which will require significant investment and management to put in place. Meanwhile, developers unable to deliver BNG on site must look at offsite compensation or purchasing biodiversity credits.
While the latter might sound like the simplest response, it could lead to accusations of ‘green-washing’. By engaging more meaningfully with the new rules, there are longer-term benefits to be gained.
Creating high-quality spaces that improve people’s quality of life will attract investment in an area, which will increase the financial value of assets there and, ultimately, provide a better return on investment.
Schemes that achieve BNG can secure additional environmental benefits in the area, allowing developers to demonstrate the wider value of their projects and sustainability leadership. Showing a clear commitment to and evidence of sustainability expertise will boost your reputation for ESG principles.
The inclusion of 10% extra biodiversity on your development site will also increase the chances of the community and planning officers supporting the scheme. It is, therefore, essential that biodiversity benefits are presented as a key element of the development at the earliest stage possible. This, in turn, should smooth your planning journey, saving time and money.
While there are challenges with the new legislation, the long-term benefits of embracing it are compelling. This can best be realised through early collaboration and engagement with specialist advisers.
Giles Heather is director of Linesight
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