Habitat Spotlight Series: Individual Trees
As part of our Habitat Spotlight Series, we’re taking a closer look at the different habitat types that frequently feature in biodiversity assessments, planning discussions, and habitat creation projects. Each edition explores a specific habitat in more detail - what it is, where it occurs, its ecological value, and how it’s treated within the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) framework.
In this edition, we’re focusing on Individual Trees
‘Individual trees’ refers to trees that are not part of a woodland or other habitat primarily characterised by trees. They can be either urban or rural - the classification depends on the surrounding habitat's degree of urbanisation.
For the purposes of BNG, “individual trees may also be found in groups or stands (with overlapping canopies) within and around the perimeter of urban land. This includes those along urban streets, highways, railways and canals, and also former field boundary trees incorporated into developments. For example, if groups of trees within the urban environment do not match the descriptions for woodland, they may be assessed as a block of individual urban trees.”
Whilst urban trees provide multiple benefits, particularly to humans, individual rural trees provide vital stepping stones for wildlife to move between natural areas, providing vital refuges in vast treeless agricultural fields.
The value of a single tree is embedded in every breath we take - trees produce oxygen, store carbon, regulate temperature, strengthen flood resilience, prevent soil erosion, reduce noise and air pollution as well as provide shelter and sustenance for countless species of birds, insects, and mammals. Studies have shown that an individual mature oak tree supports a colossal 2,300 species throughout its potential 1000 year life cycle.
Individual trees also carry deep cultural significance in the UK and around the world. They often stand as symbols of endurance, wisdom, and resilience. In fact, ancient or veteran trees are classified as irreplaceable habitats and cannot be recorded as individual trees.
If you're looking for help for your project you can find ecological support here and help sourcing biodiversity units here.
Did you know that every 90 days we do a review of the pricing of BNG across England?
Get the latest copy: click here