GREEN & BLUE INFRASTRUCTURE
MAXIMISING BIODIVERSITY NET GAIN WITH ‘ LIFETIME ’ LIVING
WALLS
BY STEVE MCINTYRE , PRINCIPAL URBAN ENVIRONMENT CONSULTANT AT GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE SPECIALISTS , ANS GLOBAL
The government has announced that all developments in England must demonstrate a 10 % increase in biodiversity . Not only that , but the habitats put in place must be managed for at least a 30 year lifespan . With this new focus not just on protecting but enhancing natural habitats , and putting into reverse years of decline in plant and animal species , how can landscape and urban designers find creative solutions to meet these requirements ?
What is biodiversity net gain ?
Biodiversity net gain is an approach to development that leaves biodiversity in a better state than before . The Environment Bill , currently making its way through Parliament and expected to receive royal ascent this year , will mandate that all developments in England demonstrate a 10 % increase in biodiversity in or near development sites , after a two-year transition period .
The new minimum biodiversity net gain legal requirement means developers will be looking to landscapers and designers for find solutions where space to create habitat on site may be limited , or the viability of a site could be affected , especially in urban developments .
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