Ecology Blog
We are now 9 months on from the introduction of mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), which requires all developments to demonstrate a minimum 10% net gain for biodiversity.
So how have local planning authorities learned and adapted over this period and what are the ecology requirements to support BNG applications?
Wintering bird surveys, sometimes known as non-breeding bird surveys, are an important part of assessing the ecological impact of a proposed development, where legal protections and conservation requirements are in place. Several factors influence the need for such surveys:
One of the ways in which planning authorities can ensure developers are doing the best they can for biodiversity is by examining their understanding of the Mitigation Hierarchy. Described by CIEEM (the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management) as “the cornerstone of achieving BNG”, the hierarchy is a linear process; a sequential set of steps from best scenario to worst scenario, namely (1) Avoid, (2) Minimise, (3) Compensate, (4) Enhance.
The new UK government is shining a more positive light on construction of on shore wind farms, but the potential impacts on wildlife (particularly bats and birds) can be negative if wind farms are created in unsuitable locations.
As our urgency for cleaner, renewable energy becomes ever more significant, solar farms are becoming an everyday sight across Britain. Rows of dark, shiny panels harvesting sunlight are also proving a popular choice for landowners looking for alternative income streams.
During Preliminary Ecological Appraisals (PEAs), National Vegetation Classification (NVC) surveys and Habitat Classification (UKHab) surveys we identify the plant species and diversity present to determine the baseline ecological value of sites. This is all the more necessary now that statutory biodiversity metrics are required for most planning applications.
Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) what they are and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements
I joined Ecology by Design just over a year ago as a seasonal ecologist and I am now working as a full-time assistant ecologist.
Even if you are familiar with the world of ecology, it is often riddled with opaque jargon and an abundance of acronyms. Here we define and de-mystify the lingo so you can also make sense of these terms!
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection spread by tick bites. Ticks infected with the virus are found in parts of Europe including the UK and Asia. In England, the risk of getting it is very low however infected ticks have been identified in Thetford Forest, Hampshire/Dorset border, New Forest, and New Yorkshire Moors. Currently the UK health authorities do not have recommendations for vaccination of the local population.
On February 12th 2024 it became a legal obligation for all developments in England to demonstrate a 10% net gain in biodiversity.
What is expected of Biodiversity Net Gain in this transition period before secondary legislation in November 2023.
You may have been advised that a Biodiversity Metric Calculation is required for your planning application, but how do you do it?
Read our expert guide on biodiversity offsetting from Ecology by Design. Learn more about the principles of biodiversity offsetting from the experts.
What is the mitigation hierarchy in biodiversity? How is it achieved? Learn about the steps of the mitigation hierarchy process and how to utilise them.
Planning policy encourages developers and land managers to leave the biodiversity of the site in a better state than it was before. Historically, this has been assessed using solely professional judgement. Ecology by Design can help you demonstrate biodiversity net gain clearly, transparently and quantitatively using a biodiversity metric.
What are the most endangered animals in the UK at the moment? Read this report from licenced ecologists to discover the animals in decline in 2022.
What are the important environmental laws that protect endangered species in the UK? Read more from licensed ecologists.
What is the difference between an EIA, EcIA and PEA? Find out everything you need to know from Ecology by Design.
Timing ecology surveys and site work can be a bit of a minefield. Learn more with our timeline for developers, featuring the key dates throughout the year to be aware of.
