Biodiversity Net Gain: What Developers Need to Know

At Elite Ecology, we are committed to enhancing the natural environment through our comprehensive Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) services. As development expands across England, integrating biodiversity into projects is no longer optional. It is now a legal requirement under the Environment Act 2021. Our goal is to help developers meet regulatory obligations while creating lasting benefits for wildlife and ecosystems.

Whether you need assistance with baseline calculations, designing biodiverse landscapes, managing habitats, or monitoring your site, we can support you at every stage of the process.

What is Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)?

Biodiversity Net Gain is a key method for halting the decline of biodiversity in the UK by 2030. It requires assessing the baseline ecological value of a site and implementing measures to retain existing habitats, improve retained areas and create new habitats for local wildlife.

BNG is designed not only to offset biodiversity losses caused by development but also to increase overall biodiversity by a minimum of 10%. This approach ensures developments contribute positively to the environment while supporting planning policy requirements. 

BNG will not be mandatory for all development projects in England. Planning authorities will only grant permission if projects can demonstrate an enhancement or increase in biodiversity. Simply put, no plan will mean no permission.

Principles of Biodiversity Net Gain:

The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) has outlined 10 principles that all projects should follow to achieve a successful BNG score:

1. Use the mitigation hierarchy to minimise biodiversity impacts.

2. Avoid impacts that cannot be offset elsewhere.

3. Engage all stakeholders in forming BNG solutions.

4. Understand potential risks and variable factors.

5. Ensure measurable biodiversity contributions.

6. Deliver the best possible outcomes for biodiversity.

7. Provide nature conservation beyond minimum requirements.

8. Focus on long-term benefits for habitats and species.

9. Incorporate economic and societal sustainability factors.

10. Communicate outcomes transparently to all stakeholders.

Following these principles ensures developments achieve real environmental gains rather than simply meeting regulatory obligations.

How Elite Ecology Supports BNG:

Our Biodiversity Net Gain reports help you understand, calculate and achieve your net gain obligations. Key services include:

• Establishing the baseline biodiversity value of a site.

• Calculating lost habitat, hedgerow and river units at the site.

• Calculating habitat, hedgerow, and river units that are to be retained, enhanced, or created.

• Determining whether the proposed development will result in a net loss, no net loss, or a net gain.

• Recommending measures to achieve the minimum 10% net gain in compliance with CIEEM principles.

We ensure your project meets regulatory requirements while creating measurable and long-term benefits for wildlife and habitats. 

Does Your Project Need a Biodiversity Net Gain Plan?

Under the Environment Act 2021, submitting a Biodiversity Net Gain plan is essential for securing planning permission. Planning authorities are required to grant permission only when a development enhances the biodiversity value of the site.

Without a BNG plan, projects cannot progress. Early engagement with an ecological consultancy such as Elite Ecology can help integrate biodiversity solutions into your project design, preventing delays and ensuring compliance.

Why Does BNG Matter?

Biodiversity Net Gain is more than a legal requirement. It is an opportunity for developers to leave a positive legacy for wildlife and communities. By embedding biodiversity into your project, you can contribute to:

• Healthier ecosystems.

• Improved habitats for local species.

• Compliance with national and local planning policies.

• A resilient and sustainable development.

At Elite Ecology, we work with clients to deliver practical BNG solutions that balance development goals with ecological responsibility.

Speak with our experienced team to have any questions answered and learn how our Biodiversity Net Gain services can support your project.