UKGBC’s members are already at the forefront of work to deliver biodiversity net gain across the construction, property, and other related sectors; with many having already delivered significant biodiversity gains on a wide variety of projects. Likewise, many of our members have made ambitious organisational commitments regarding biodiversity. The experience of our members, together with the work of our biodiversity and climate adaptation research programme, has informed our response to this consultation, and we are keen to continue to work with DEFRA to support further policy developments in this area. 

We welcome the Government’s consultation on further details for the regulation and implementation of biodiversity net gain, as UKGBC strongly supports the introduction of the biodiversity net gain requirement across new development. Developing a proportionate, effective system for delivering biodiversity enhancement will be critical for our sector to play its part in achieving the UK’s goal to reverse nature’s decline by 2030. Having clear and effective expectations for the industry, alongside robust governance, monitoring, and enforcement mechanisms will be essential if net gain is to consistently deliver good quality results. Increased training and resourcing for local planning authorities will be essential if the system is to function effectively and is to be sufficiently underpinned by both the right ecological expertise and a robust evidence-base. 

Learn more about DEFRA’s consultation here.

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